15 People Rescued from Rip Currents as Tropical Storm Chantal Threatens Carolina Beaches

15 People Rescued from Rip Currents as Tropical Storm Chantal Threatens Carolina Beaches

WILMINGTON, N.C. – As Tropical Storm Chantal pushes through the Atlantic, lifeguards in coastal North Carolina have rescued at least 15 swimmers from dangerous rip currents near Wilmington since Friday, prompting urgent warnings ahead of the storm’s impact.

The National Weather Service issued a Tropical Storm Warning for the coastline Saturday, stretching from Brunswick County through Pender County, warning of sustained winds between 39–57 mph, high surf, and life-threatening currents.

Lifeguards Perform Back-to-Back Rescues

On Friday, rescue crews were busiest:

Though the rip current risk was classified as moderate that day, officials say conditions quickly deteriorated heading into the weekend.

On Saturday, the risk level rose to high, and lifeguards reported:

  • Two rescues at Sunset Beach in Brunswick County.

  • Two additional rescues at Carolina Beach.

These figures reflect only confirmed rescues, though as WECT reports, lifeguards say many potential incidents may have been avoided simply due to reduced beach attendance during the stormy weather.

Storm Chantal Alters Conditions Rapidly

The emergency warnings came after Tropical Depression Three rapidly intensified into Tropical Storm Chantal, prompting last-minute updates to surf forecasts.

A High Surf Advisory warned of breaking waves 4 to 7 feet high, creating turbulent surf zones that could overpower even experienced swimmers.

The National Weather Service in Wilmington cautioned:

“A high rip current risk means life-threatening conditions are expected in the surf zone. Stay out of the water if you are not a strong swimmer or trained lifeguard.”

July Fourth Week Was Already Dangerous

This comes just after last year’s Fourth of July holiday week, when nearly 200 rip current rescues occurred across North Carolina beaches, according to Wrightsville Beach officials.

The surf and weather forecast for Sunday through Monday includes:

  • Localized flooding

  • Heavy rainfall across southeastern NC

  • Rough surf from Myrtle Beach to the Outer Banks

Tips for Swimmers and Vacationers

As storm season picks up, officials urge beachgoers to:

  • Check surf conditions before heading to the beach using sources like Beach Hazards Statement Updates

  • Swim only at lifeguarded beaches

  • Know how to spot and escape a rip current (swim parallel to the shore)

  • Avoid swimming during active weather advisories

Have you or someone you know experienced dangerous surf at Carolina beaches? Share your stories or safety tips at saludastandard-sentinel.com — your voice could help others stay safe during storm season.

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