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.

Rip Current Warning Issued for North Carolina’s Outer Banks

News Summary