Outer Banks, NC, September 21, 2025
News Summary
A rip current warning has been issued for North Carolina’s Outer Banks and Hatteras Island as Tropical Storm Gabrielle approaches. The National Weather Service warns of life-threatening rip currents affecting beachgoers, particularly in the northern Outer Banks. Swimmers are advised to take safety precautions, such as staying in shallow water and avoiding swimming altogether. Gabrielle is projected to become a hurricane, potentially impacting coastal conditions over the weekend.
Rip Current Warning Issued for North Carolina’s Outer Banks Amid Tropical Storm Gabrielle’s Approach
North Carolina’s Outer Banks and Hatteras Island are under a rip current warning issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Newport/Morehead City NC, effective Sunday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. This warning comes as Tropical Storm Gabrielle is expected to affect coastal conditions significantly.
The NWS has characterized the rip currents as life-threatening, warning that even experienced swimmers can be swept away from the shore into deeper waters. Beachgoers, especially those swimming in the northern Outer Banks, including Currituck Sound, Corolla, and Carova Beach, are advised to stay out of the water due to the dangers posed by these currents. The same caution extends to the southern Outer Banks and Wilmington, NC, where a moderate risk of rip currents is also in effect.
Safety Measures
In case of being caught in a rip current, the NWS recommends swimmers remain calm, swim parallel to the shoreline, float or tread water if they are tired, and face the shore to call for help if they are unable to escape. It is crucial for all swimmers to stay in shallow water and remain mindful of the powerful surf conditions that could easily knock them off their feet.
Tropical Storm Gabrielle Details
Tropical Storm Gabrielle is projected to become a hurricane on Sunday. As of Saturday at 11 a.m., the storm was located about 615 miles southeast of Bermuda and moving at a speed of 13 mph. The storm features maximum sustained winds of 60 mph, with wave heights around its center reported between 5 and 8 feet.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) anticipates that swells generated by Gabrielle will have significant impacts on North Carolina’s coastal regions late this weekend and into early next week. As of now, Gabrielle stands as the seventh named storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June to November 30.
Current Season Predictions
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season is expected to produce between 13 to 18 named storms, with 5 to 9 potentially becoming hurricanes, and 2 to 5 could reach major hurricane status. The first hurricane of the season, Erin, has already occurred.
Historical Context
This warning follows previously issued beach hazards statements that have been updated multiple times, including on September 14 at 4:15 PM and the following Wednesday at 5:22 a.m. The rip current risk varies along the coast, with high risks identified from Duck to Hatteras and moderate risks from Ocracoke to Cape Lookout, while low risks are present on the Crystal Coast.
Given the current conditions, beachgoers are urged to exercise extreme caution while entering the surf and ideally ensure a lifeguard is present to help safeguard against potential dangers.
FAQ
What areas are under a rip current warning?
North Carolina’s Outer Banks and Hatteras Island are under a rip current warning.
What should swimmers do if caught in a rip current?
Swimmers should remain calm, swim parallel to the shoreline, float or tread water if tired, and face the shore to call for help if unable to escape.
What is the status of Tropical Storm Gabrielle?
Tropical Storm Gabrielle is expected to become a hurricane and is currently located about 615 miles southeast of Bermuda, moving at 13 mph with maximum sustained winds of 60 mph.
How many named storms are predicted for the 2025 hurricane season?
The NOAA has predicted 13 to 18 named storms, of which 5 to 9 could become hurricanes, and 2 to 5 could be major hurricanes.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Rip Current Warning | Issued for North Carolina’s Outer Banks and Hatteras Island, effective 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. |
| Risk Level | Life-threatening rip currents present, with high risk from Duck to Hatteras. |
| Tropical Storm Gabrielle | Located 615 miles southeast of Bermuda, maximum winds of 60 mph. |
| Surge Impact | Swells from Gabrielle expected to affect North Carolina late weekend into early next week. |
| Hurricane Season | 2025 season runs from June to November 30, with 13 to 18 named storms predicted. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Power Pole Explosion in Kitty Hawk Due to Thunderstorms
Buxton, North Carolina Home Collapses into Atlantic Ocean
Buxton House Collapse Raises Safety Concerns
Updated Beach Hazards and Coastal Flood Advisory in Northern Outer Banks
12th House Collapse in Buxton, NC Highlights Coastal Safety Risks
Oceanfront Home in Buxton Collapses into Atlantic Ocean
Tropical Disturbance May Develop into Depression This Week
Impact of Erosion and Climate Change on North Carolina’s Highway 12
Modular Home Blown Off Trailer in Outer Banks Incident
Coastal Storm Threatens Mid-Atlantic with Heavy Rain and Winds
Additional Resources
- Charlotte Observer
- Wikipedia: Rip current
- News & Observer
- Google Search: rip current North Carolina
- Herald Sun
- Google Scholar: Hurricane Gabrielle
- WITN
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tropical storm
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.
