Rip current warning issued after 2 deaths off Central Florida beaches

MELBOURNE, Fla. – Central Florida authorities are warning ocean swimmers to beware of rip currents after the deaths of two people over the weekend.

Brevard County sheriff's Deputy Maria Fernez says Darrius Rodwell, of Mims, drowned Saturday and Jose Sanchez, of Texas, drowned Sunday. Sanchez's hometown was not released.

Brevard County Ocean Rescue Assistant Chief Eisen Witcher tells Local 6 News partner Florida Today that lifeguards rescued 19 people from rip currents over the weekend.

Forecasters warned that rip current conditions will continue for the next several days.

Witcher urged swimmers at Central Florida beaches to stay near lifeguards.