Virginia Beach, Va. – Strong rip currents and rough surf are creating hazardous beach conditions along the Mid-Atlantic coastline Monday, with warnings stretching from Maryland to North Carolina.
According to the National Weather Service in Wakefield, breaking waves of 2 to 4 feet will continue through Monday evening, raising the risk of rip currents at Virginia Beach, the Eastern Shore of Virginia, Worcester County in Maryland, and Eastern Currituck County in North Carolina. Officials warn even experienced swimmers can be pulled away from shore into deeper water.
Beachgoers are urged to stay out of the surf as dangerous shore break can cause serious injuries, including neck and back trauma. Lifeguards along Virginia Beach and Ocean City, Md., are expected to keep swimmers close to shore and may issue red-flag warnings through the day.
Travelers heading to the coast for late-summer vacations should remain cautious, as conditions are not expected to improve until later tonight. More advisories could be issued if high surf persists into Tuesday.
