High risk of rip currents continues on Saturday for all Outer Banks beaches

A high risk of rip currents continues for Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands on Saturday, September 16, as swell from Tropical Cyclone Lee continues to impact the Outer Banks shoreline.

Swell heights are forecast to gradually subside over the next two days, but an enhanced rip current risk is expected to continue on Sunday, especially north of Cape Lookout. N.C.

A high risk of rip currents means that the surf zone is dangerous for all levels of swimmers, and beachgoers should stay out of the water.

N.C. Highway 12 remained open and passable throughout on Saturday morning, with small areas of sand and standing water. North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) crews are continuing to work to clear the roads.

The public should check surf and swimming conditions before heading to the beach, and the daily beach forecast at www.weather.gov/beach/mhx includes rip current risk levels, and information about other hazards along the shoreline. In addition, the public can visit Dare County’s Love The Beach, Respect The Ocean website for current rip current risks and additional info.

Visitors are also encouraged to sign up for text alerts from Dare County, ocean rescue agencies, and the National Weather Service by texting “OBXBeachConditions” to 77295.

Visit the National Weather Service’s local website at weather.gov/mhx/tropical for continued updates on Tropical Cyclone Lee.