NC–VA Coast Weather Outlook: Rip Currents Monday, Showers Expected by Late Week
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — As fall begins along the Mid-Atlantic coast, beachgoers from North Carolina’s Outer Banks to Virginia Beach are facing dangerous rip currents today (Sept. 22), while forecasters say rain will return later this week.
Hazardous Rip Currents Along Beaches
The National Weather Service warns that breaking waves of 3 to 5 feet will continue into Monday evening, creating high rip current risks along beaches in:
- Maryland
- Eastern Currituck County, N.C.
- Virginia Beach
- Accomack and Northampton Counties, Va.
Swimmers are urged to stay out of the water and check local safety flags and updates before approaching the shore.
Mild Start to the Week
Despite the surf hazards, inland conditions remain calm. Monday brings mostly sunny skies and highs near 73°F, with light northeast winds around 8 mph. Tuesday looks warmer with patchy morning fog giving way to sunshine and highs near 79°F.
Midweek Warming, Rain Chances Rise
A warming trend develops by midweek. Wednesday will reach around 82°F with mostly sunny skies, though a few showers could appear overnight.
By Thursday, partly sunny skies give way to scattered showers, with highs near 82°F. Thursday night into Friday brings a 50–60% chance of rain, marking the start of a wetter pattern heading into the weekend.
Weekend Outlook
- Friday: Showers likely, high near 79°F
- Saturday: More showers possible, high 78°F
- Sunday: Partly sunny, cooler, with highs near 76°F
The unsettled pattern suggests the first full weekend of fall will be damp but cooler, offering some relief from recent summerlike warmth.
Do you think the Carolinas and Virginia are prepared for a wetter start to fall after weeks of summerlike weather? Share your perspective with us at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
