Virginia Beach Faces High Rip Current Risk, Coastal Flooding, High Surf

Virginia Beach residents and visitors are advised to remain out of the water due to a high risk of rip currents, effective immediately and continuing through Thursday evening. This alert is part of a Beach Hazards Statement issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Wakefield VA.

In addition to the rip current threat, a Coastal Flood Warning is in effect for Virginia Beach until 4 AM EDT Friday, September 24. This warning anticipates two to three feet of inundation above ground level in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways. Widespread flooding is expected, threatening property and leading to road closures. Water depths may be sufficient to close numerous roads and impact homes and businesses. Residents in flood-prone areas should take necessary actions to protect their property. If travel is unavoidable, do not drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth.

A High Surf Advisory is also in place for Virginia Beach until 6 PM EDT Thursday, September 24, with large breaking waves of 8 to 12 feet expected in the surf zone. Inexperienced swimmers should remain out of the water due to these dangerous surf conditions.

The NWS urges everyone to exercise extreme caution near the water and to heed all warnings and advisories. This alert was issued by NWS Wakefield VA on September 23 at 9:54 PM EDT.