Meteorological spring arrives this weekend, and with the rise in temperatures more people are expected at U.S. beaches. And as more people head into the water, officials are warning beachgoers to be aware of rip currents. Spokesperson for the American Lifeguard Association Wyatt Werneth joined FOX Weather on Thursday to explain what a rip current is, how to spot one and how to stay safe.

INDIAN RIVER COUNTY, Fla. – A fatal water-related incident occurred involving a high school senior at a Florida beach in Indian River County days before graduation.

Members of Sebastian River High School are mourning the death of a high school senior who tragically passed away following a water-related incident, according to school district officials. 

According to a Facebook post from Sebastian River High School, a group of senior students went to a beach after school, when one of the students was caught in a rip current. The student was unfortunately pulled underwater for several minutes, and despite efforts to revive the victim, he passed away on the way to the hospital.

A service is held at Sebastian River High School to honor and remember the victim who is loved by so many in the community.

(Sebastian River High School / Facebook)

If caught in a rip current, NOAA advises swimming parallel to the shore instead of toward it as the best escape method.

“The student was a proud member of our band and a beloved member of our senior class,” said a statement from the high school. “Out of respect for our classmate and his family, we will be canceling tonight’s end-of-the-year band concert.”

The community comes together to honor and remember a beloved Sebastian River High School member.

(Sebastian River High School / Facebook)

The devastation comes just a week before the class of 2025 is scheduled for graduation. 

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The high school hosted a service for the community to honor a beloved member of the graduating class. School officials shared that student and staff support is available on campus during this time.