Wilmington, NC – Beachgoers along the Carolina coastline are being warned of life-threatening rip currents early this week as distant Tropical Storm Gabrielle churns across the Atlantic.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, dangerous rip currents are expected to begin Sunday afternoon, September 21, and continue through at least Tuesday, September 23. The hazard is linked to long-period swells from Gabrielle, which is forecast to pass east of Bermuda as a hurricane on Monday.
The weather service reports that breaking wave heights of 3 to 4 feet are likely at east-facing beaches, creating dangerous swimming conditions. Officials emphasized that the risk will peak Tuesday across both North Carolina and South Carolina beaches.
“Even though Gabrielle remains far offshore, its swells will make the waters along our coast hazardous,” forecasters noted in Sunday’s briefing. “Beachgoers should avoid swimming, especially at unguarded beaches.”
The advisory extends to Brunswick, New Hanover, and Pender counties in North Carolina as well as Horry and Georgetown counties in South Carolina. Local emergency managers are urging residents and visitors to heed posted warnings, check beach forecasts, and stay out of the water if unsure of conditions.
For the latest beach forecast and safety updates, visit weather.gov/beach/ilm.
