The National Weather Service in Mobile has issued a warning about the high risk of rip currents today through Tuesday evening along the coast.

The risk of rip currents, powerful currents that can pull swimmers out to sea, is very high, according to weather service forecasters. All swimmers are advised to stay out of the Gulf of Mexico today.

Surf is predicted to be 2 to 3 feet high with south winds at 5 to 10 mph.

The weather service also issued a UV index alert. If you are outside where sunscreen or cover up. Minimize your sun exposure between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

The forecast:

— Today: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 89. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

— Tonight: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 79. South wind 5 to 10 mph becoming east after midnight.

— Wednesday: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 88. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south in the afternoon.

— Wednesday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 80. South wind 5 to 10 mph becoming east after midnight.

— Thursday: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 88. East wind 5 to 10 mph.

— Thursday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 79. South wind around 10 mph becoming east after midnight.

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