In a devastating turn of events, two teenage girls lost their lives after being rescued from the water at Coney Island Beach in New York City. The incident occurred on Friday evening when authorities received distress calls about three individuals struggling in the water off Coney Island in Brooklyn.

A frantic search operation was initiated by the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) to locate the teenagers. After more than an hour of intensive searching, the rescue team successfully retrieved the two girls, identified as an 18-year-old and a 17-year-old, from the water.

Both teenagers were immediately rushed to Coney Island Hospital in critical condition. However, overnight updates from law enforcement sources confirmed that the two sisters had tragically succumbed to their injuries at the hospital. At this time, their identities have not been released.

Initially, divers were also searching for a missing man in his 20s who was believed to be in the water. However, police later clarified that there was no third missing swimmer.

This incident follows a similar tragedy last month at Jacob Riis Park, another popular beach in New York City, where two teenage boys drowned. Concerns have been raised about the recent spate of drownings caused by rip currents at beaches.

Rip currents have proven to be a deadly phenomenon, claiming lives in various locations. In Florida, a Pennsylvania couple lost their lives along with their six children after being caught in a rip current while swimming at Stuart Beach. Additionally, three men from Alabama drowned last month after becoming trapped in a rip current at Panama City Beach in Florida.

Experts advise that when caught in a rip current, it is crucial to remain calm, signal for help, and swim parallel to the shore until one is out of the dangerous current.

The tragic incident at Coney Island Beach serves as a somber reminder of the dangers posed by rip currents and the importance of proper precautions while enjoying beach activities. Authorities continue to urge beachgoers to stay vigilant, follow safety guidelines, and heed any warnings or advisories issued by lifeguards.