Beach Weather Update: Rip Current Risks Rise for North Carolina and South Carolina Coasts This Weekend
NORTH CAROLINA / SOUTH CAROLINA – A weakening ridge of high pressure is shaping up to bring a breezy weekend to North Carolina and South Carolina beaches, but swimmers should be aware of heightened rip current dangers in some areas.
Outer Banks See Higher Rip Current Threat
The National Weather Service in Morehead City warns that rip current risks will be elevated for the Outer Banks through Sunday, with a steady northeasterly to easterly breeze influencing coastal waters. While the northern beaches may enjoy more sunshine mixed with clouds, the Crystal Coast and southern beaches are expected to see more clouds than sun over the weekend.
Moderate rip current risks are also forecast for:
- Core Banks Beach area
- Wrightsville Beach to Bald Head Island
Meteorologists advise beachgoers to monitor surf conditions closely before entering the water.
Safety Tips for Coastal Visitors
Experts stress that if caught in a rip current, swimmers should remain calm, conserve energy, and swim parallel to shore until they are out of the current’s pull.
NOAA’s Break the Grip of the Rip campaign and coastal safety advocate Bruckner Chase offer educational videos to help visitors understand ocean hazards, including shorebreak waves and shifting currents.
South Carolina Beach Outlook
Southern beaches, including Myrtle Beach, Pawley’s Island, and Carolina Beach, will also see breezy conditions and moderate rip current risks. While some sunshine is expected, cloud cover will be more persistent compared to the Outer Banks.
Tide and current information is available through NOAA’s official Tides and Currents resource, offering real-time data for those planning water activities.
Are you heading to the beach this weekend in the Carolinas? Share your coastal photos and experiences with the Saluda Standard-Sentinel community. Your firsthand updates can help keep fellow readers safe and informed.
