Dangerous Rip Currents and High Surf for Coastal New Hanover

Coastal New Hanover County residents and visitors are advised to avoid swimming today due to a High Rip Current Risk and High Surf Advisory in effect until 8:00 PM EDT this evening, September 24.

The National Weather Service in Wilmington, NC, has issued this statement, warning of dangerous rip currents and large breaking waves reaching 4 to 7 feet in the surf zone. These conditions create dangerous swimming and surfing conditions and may lead to localized beach erosion.

Inexperienced swimmers are urged to stay out of the water. For those who do enter the water, the NWS advises swimming near a lifeguard. If caught in a rip current, individuals should relax and float, avoiding swimming against the current. If possible, swim parallel to the shoreline. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help.