Atlantic City, NJ – Beachgoers flocking to the New Jersey and Delaware coasts Thursday are facing dangerous swimming conditions as a moderate to high risk of rip currents stretches through the day. According to the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, lifeguards and flag warning systems are urging everyone along the Atlantic shoreline to exercise extreme caution, especially as Delaware beaches are under a high rip current alert.
Sunny skies and a northeast breeze are drawing large crowds, but surf heights between two and four feet, along with very high UV levels, raise concerns for swimmers and families alike. Low tide between 8:45 and 10:30 a.m. adds to the risk, particularly near inlets and jetties from Cape May to Rehoboth Beach. Air temperatures will hover near 80 degrees, with water temperatures in the 70s—ideal for swimming, but treacherous if caught in a current.
Swimmers are urged to stay in view of lifeguards, check local advisories, and never swim alone. If caught in a rip current, remain calm and swim parallel to the shore until free. Officials stress the importance of following posted flags and beach patrol instructions as rip currents can develop quickly, even on sunny days.
Warnings remain in effect through the evening, and further updates may be issued if hazardous surf persists.
