Rip Current Statement Issued: Coastal Pender, New Hanover at Risk

Residents and visitors in Coastal Pender and Coastal New Hanover counties should be aware of a Rip Current Statement, Coastal Flood Advisory, and High Surf Advisory issued by the National Weather Service Wilmington NC. These conditions are in effect today, October 10, 2026.

A Rip Current Statement is active from 6 AM EDT this morning through this evening, indicating dangerous rip currents are expected. A Coastal Flood Advisory is in effect from 6 AM to 10 AM EDT this morning, with up to one half foot of inundation above ground level expected in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways. A High Surf Advisory begins at 2 PM this afternoon and continues until 8 AM EDT Sunday, with large breaking waves of 3 to 6 feet expected in the surf zone.

Impacts include minor coastal flooding on low-lying roads and locations along the Intracoastal Waterway and adjacent tidal creeks. Dangerous swimming and surfing conditions, as well as localized beach erosion, are anticipated. Rip currents can swiftly carry individuals away from shore. If travel is necessary, allow extra time for potential road closures and do not drive through water of unknown depth. Take actions to protect flood-prone property. Inexperienced swimmers should avoid the water due to dangerous surf. If caught in a rip current, relax and float, swim parallel to the shore, or face the shore and call for help.