There are three common types of rip current [16].
Topographic rip
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A topographic rip current will remain in the same area for months or even years. This is due to permanent features such as rock groynes, reefs, headlands, drainage pipes or permanent structures, such as a pier or jetty.
Fixed rip
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Fixed rip currents are generated by a semi-permanent hole or gully on the sandy ocean floor. Once established, a fixed rip may last from several hours to many months. The length of time depends on the ocean conditions and the resulting movement of the sand.
Flash rip
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The flash rip current is temporary in nature for any given location. It is caused by a large surf build-up in a short period of time, which increases the volume of water above mean sea level. Flash rip currents appear suddenly, usually without warning. The seaward pull may be intense and is relatively short-lived.