High risk of rip currents continues on Tuesday

A high risk of rip currents continues on Tuesday, September 13, for all Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island beaches, per a recent update from the National Weather Service.

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. The elevated rip current risk is due to the lingering effects of Hurricane Earl, and beach conditions are expected to improve this week.

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

For more information on the local forecast, visit www.weather.gov/mhx for general weather information, or the National Weather Service office in Newport / Morehead City’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/NWSMoreheadCity/.