Newport, North Carolina, August 26, 2025
News Summary
The National Weather Service has issued an urgent beach hazards statement for the Northern Outer Banks and Hatteras Island, warning of life-threatening rip currents caused by Hurricane Erin’s remnants. Beachgoers are advised to avoid the water as conditions remain dangerous, with strong currents and flooding expected. Local authorities report several water rescues already taking place. Residents are urged to stay informed about the evolving weather conditions and take necessary precautions.
Newport, North Carolina – The National Weather Service (NWS) Newport/Morehead City has issued an urgent beach hazards statement for the Northern Outer Banks and Hatteras Island due to the potential for life-threatening rip currents. The statement is effective from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, urging both residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution when considering activities in the water.
The NWS emphasizes that rip currents can pose severe threats even to the strongest swimmers, as these powerful channels of water can rapidly carry individuals away from the shore into deeper waters. Beachgoers are strongly advised to avoid entering the ocean during this time due to the hazardous surf conditions that have developed as remnants of Hurricane Erin approach the region.
Individuals caught in a rip current should remain calm, swim parallel to the shoreline to escape, and float or tread water if they become fatigued. If they are unable to get free, they should face the shore and signal for help by calling out or waving their arms.
Current Conditions and Warnings
The beach hazards statement is expected to remain in effect until 8 p.m. Tuesday, with red flags already present on North Carolina beaches warning swimmers not to enter the water. The storm system associated with Hurricane Erin has passed, but residual high surf and strong longshore currents are still impacting Northern Outer Banks and Crystal Coast beaches. Various local authorities have reported several water rescues occurring on southern beaches since Monday, highlighting the dangerous conditions.
The NWS has also documented inundation levels ranging from 1 to 2 feet above ground in low-lying areas, particularly around high tide. As a result, hazardous swimming conditions, along with local beach erosion, have been characterized in the warnings. The advisories specified that beachgoers should avoid entering the water under any circumstances due to the imminent threat posed by the conditions.
Additional Impacts from Hurricane Erin
While Hurricane Erin is no longer classified as a tropical system and is moving away from North America, local impacts are still evident. A State of Emergency was declared in Dare County in response to the storm. The NWS highlighted that in addition to dangerous ocean conditions, residents should anticipate flooding in low-lying areas, which may lead to flooded lots, roads, and parks, along with possible isolated road closures.
Residents living in flood-prone areas are encouraged to take immediate precautions to ensure safety, including seeking higher ground. Authorities strongly advise against driving through floodwaters, as even a foot of moving water can carry away most vehicles, leading to hazardous situations. The NWS has provided guidance on the risks of hydroplaning, emphasizing the dangers of driving in wet conditions.
Key Messages for Beachgoers
- Stay out of the water due to life-threatening rip currents and dangerous surf conditions.
- If caught in a rip current, swim parallel to the shore, and signal for help if needed.
- Remain alert to evolving conditions and follow local advisories and alerts.
- Avoid driving through any flooded areas to ensure personal safety.
Emergency Preparedness
In light of the current weather conditions and warnings, residents and visitors are reminded to remain updated on weather reports and to heed any emergency instructions. Proper planning and awareness can help reduce risk during this volatile period along North Carolina’s coastal region.
FAQs
What is the beach hazards statement issued by the NWS?
The beach hazards statement warns of life-threatening rip currents and hazardous surf conditions affecting the Northern Outer Banks and Hatteras Island.
How long will the beach hazards statement be in effect?
The statement is effective from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday.
What should I do if caught in a rip current?
If caught in a rip current, remain calm, swim parallel to the shore, and if you’re tired, float or tread water. Signal for help if needed.
What other conditions are expected due to Hurricane Erin?
In addition to hazardous surf, residents should expect potential flooding in low-lying areas, along with road closures.
Key Features of the Beach Hazards Statement
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Effective Timing | 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday |
| Rip Currents | Potentially life-threatening conditions |
| Swimming Safety | Swimmers should remain out of the water |
| Flooding Risk | 1 to 2 feet of inundation in low-lying areas |
| Emergency Advisory | State of Emergency in Dare County |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Hurricane Erin Threatens Outer Banks with Evacuations
Hurricane Erin Causes Severe Damage in Rodanthe
Precautionary Swimming Advisory Issued for Outer Banks
Hurricane Erin Causes Severe Coastal Flooding Along East Coast
Hurricane Erin Causes Severe Flooding in Outer Banks
New Jersey and New York Prepare for Hurricane Erin’s Impact
Duck Fire Department Investigates House Fire on Four Seasons Lane
Hurricane Erin Forces Mandatory Evacuations in North Carolina
Hurricane Erin Approaches North Carolina’s Outer Banks
Hurricane Erin Weakens, Still Threatens East Coast
Additional Resources
- Herald Sun
- Wikipedia: Rip Current
- WXII 12
- Google Search: Rip Currents
- Charlotte Observer
- Google Scholar: Hurricane Erin
- News Observer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricane
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
