Dangerous Rip Currents, Large Waves Expected for Northern Outer Banks

Residents and visitors on the Northern Outer Banks beaches are advised to exercise extreme caution due to a Beach Hazards Statement issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Newport/Morehead City NC.

This alert, effective from 8 AM EDT Sunday, October 11, and lasting through Sunday evening, October 11, warns of dangerous rip currents and large breaking waves in the surf zone. The most likely time for strong rip currents is anticipated to be a couple of hours on either side of low tide, which will occur around 3:00 PM Sunday.

Rip currents pose a significant danger, capable of sweeping even strong swimmers away from shore into deeper water. If caught in a rip current, the NWS advises remaining calm. Swimmers should swim in a direction following the shoreline. If tired, float or tread water until out of the rip current. If escape is not possible, face the shore and call or wave for help.

Additionally, large breaking waves can create dangerous shore break, where waves break directly on the beach. This can lead to serious neck and back injuries if a swimmer or surfer is thrown headfirst into the bottom. It is crucial to protect your head and neck by keeping your hands in front of you at all times when in breaking waves.