Beach Hazards, Coastal Flooding, and High Surf Expected for Maryland and Virginia

Residents and visitors in Maryland Beaches, Accomack, and Northampton counties are urged to take immediate action due to a combination of severe weather alerts issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Wakefield VA.

A Beach Hazards Statement is in effect until Wednesday evening, September 23, due to a high risk of rip currents. Inexperienced swimmers should remain out of the water. Dangerous swimming conditions are expected.

Coastal flooding is also a significant concern. A Coastal Flood Advisory is active until 4 PM EDT Wednesday, with up to one foot of inundation above ground level expected in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways. This will escalate into a Coastal Flood Warning from 4 PM Wednesday until 4 AM EDT Friday, with one to two feet of inundation above ground level anticipated. Numerous roads may be closed, and low-lying property, including homes and businesses, may be inundated. Take necessary actions to protect flood-prone property. If travel is required, do not drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth.

Additionally, a High Surf Advisory is in effect until 6 PM EDT Thursday, with large breaking waves of 9 to 13 feet expected in the surf zone, contributing to dangerous swimming and surfing conditions and localized beach erosion.