News Summary
The National Weather Service has issued a beach hazards statement for the Northern Outer Banks, warning of a high rip current risk. Effective until 8 p.m. Tuesday, the alert highlights the dangers posed by rip currents, which can pull swimmers into deeper waters. In light of recent tragic incidents and an increasing number of rescues, beach officials stress the importance of safety measures for beachgoers, including staying informed and following recommended guidelines.
Newport, North Carolina – The National Weather Service (NWS) Newport/Morehead City NC has issued a beach hazards statement, cautioning beachgoers of a high rip current risk along the Northern Outer Banks. The alert was released on Monday at 8:21 p.m. and remains valid for Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
The NWS warns that rip currents can be life-threatening, emphasizing that these powerful channels of water can pull even experienced swimmers away from the shore into deeper waters. Safety recommendations have been provided for anyone who may find themselves caught in a rip current, which include remaining calm, swimming parallel to the shore, and if fatigued, floating or treading water until safely out of the current. If swimmers find themselves unable to escape, they should face the shore and signal for help.
The beach hazards statement is a continued response to previous warnings as the region has seen alarming incidents associated with rip currents. Earlier in the week, a similar statement was issued on Thursday morning, valid for the Northern Outer Banks and Hatteras Island, until 8 p.m. The NWS noted the forecast of dangerous rip currents and large breaking waves within the surf zone. They further advised that the strongest rip currents typically occur around low tide, which was expected at approximately 9 a.m. on Thursday.
In light of the recent weather conditions, which have included a persistent southwest breeze and large swells, beach officials in North Topsail Beach are also conducting searches for a missing 14-year-old boy from Goldsboro. He went missing while fishing with his brother in the New River Inlet. This tragic incident follows a spike in rip current rescues, with at least 70 reported rescues in New Hanover County on July 4th, including equal counts at Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach. These numbers highlight the pressing need for caution during beach outings.
The NWS has consistently alerted residents and visitors alike about the moderate to high risk of rip currents along the coast. On Independence Day, meteorologists had already underscored these dangers, reinforcing the importance of heeding safety measures. Regrettably, the rising number of incidents related to rip currents continues to be concerning, with a recent drowning of a teenager from Ohio in Nags Head, after three swimmers experienced distress near the Gull Street public beach access.
As preparations for summertime activities continue, beach officials stress the significance of vigilance and awareness regarding rip currents. Families intending to visit the beach this Tuesday are encouraged to monitor updated safety advisories and to strictly follow beach safety recommendations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience at the coast.
The beach hazards statement will remain in effect until Tuesday evening at 8 p.m. Beachgoers are urged to stay informed about conditions and to prioritize safety while enjoying North Carolina’s scenic waterways.
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Additional Resources
- Charlotte Observer: Beach Hazards Statement
- Wikipedia: Rip Current
- Herald Sun: Rip Current Risks
- Google Search: Beach Safety Guidelines
- News Observer: Weather Conditions and Safety
- Google Scholar: Rip Current Safety
- Charlotte Observer: Rip Current Safety Measures
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rip Currents
- News Observer: Recent Rip Current Incidents
- Google News: North Carolina Beach Weather
