Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers from Pasco County south through Lee County to use caution today as a high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected along the Gulf Coast.

There is also a High Surf Advisory for all counties through 4 p.m. this afternoon, with rough waves expected to reach 4 to 6 feet.

A High Surf Advisory is issued when dangerous water action is expected along the coast, including rough surf, large breaking waves, rip currents and strong undertow.

When red flags are flying beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Gulf of Mexico can be dangerous.