High risk of rip currents forecast for southern Hatteras Island and Ocracoke on Tuesday

A high risk of rip currents is in effect for all Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island beaches south of Cape Hatteras in Buxton, 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.

Tuesday will be the driest day of the week across eastern North Carolina. After today, the risk of thunderstorms will increase, some of which could be on the strong side with wind gusts of 40-60 mph and very heavy rainfall.

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/.