High Rip Current Risk Issued for Southeast North Carolina Beaches Tuesday
WILMINGTON, N.C. — The National Weather Service in Wilmington has issued a rip current statement for parts of the southeast North Carolina coast, warning beachgoers of dangerous conditions on Tuesday.
The alert covers New Hanover County and Pender County beaches and will remain in effect from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday.
Hurricane Gabrielle Driving Risky Surf
The heightened risk comes as Hurricane Gabrielle, now a Category 4 storm, churns in the Atlantic about 220 miles east of Bermuda and nearly 975 miles off the Wilmington coast.
Forecasters said the storm is expected to generate powerful swells along the East Coast, bringing life-threatening surf and rip currents to beaches from North Carolina northward.
What the Advisory Means for Beachgoers
Rip currents can sweep even experienced swimmers into deeper water. Officials advised anyone entering the ocean to swim near lifeguards if possible.
“If caught in a rip current, relax and float. Don’t swim against the current,” NWS forecasters said. “Swim parallel to the shoreline if able. If you cannot escape, face the shore and call or wave for help.”
Storm Not Expected to Make Landfall
While Hurricane Gabrielle is not projected to make landfall in the United States, its effects will continue to be felt along the Carolina coastline through large swells and hazardous surf conditions.
Have you ever encountered dangerous rip currents on North Carolina’s beaches? Share your experience in the comments on SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
