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

A high risk of rip currents continues for Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands on Wednesday, September 13, as distant Hurricane Lee impacts the Outer Banks shoreline.

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 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.

Surf conditions will remain dangerous throughout the week as the powerful swell from Lee continues to build. Potential coastal impacts from the long-period swell are also expected later in the week, peaking Thursday through Saturday, with beach erosion, large breaking waves, ocean overwash, and coastal flooding possible.

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