Morehead City, North Carolina – Beachgoers from Cape Hatteras to Surf City should think twice before heading into the water Tuesday. Dangerous longshore currents will remain in effect from 8 a.m. until Tuesday evening, creating life-threatening conditions along North Carolina’s southern Outer Banks.
According to the National Weather Service in Morehead City, a Beach Hazards Statement remains active throughout Memorial Day and continues into Tuesday. The alert affects coastal areas including Hatteras Island, Ocracoke, Carteret, and Onslow Counties. These strong currents can knock swimmers off their feet and drag them into rip zones or into piers and jetties.
Officials are urging the public to stay out of the surf. If you must enter the water, swim near a lifeguard and avoid swimming alone. Longshore currents can intensify during the day, particularly during incoming tides.
Local Impacts:
- Cape Hatteras and Ocracoke: Highway 12 beach access points may see rough surf and stronger waves Tuesday.
- Surf City and Emerald Isle: Moderate rip current risk; plan morning beach trips with caution.
- Carteret County: Tourists in Atlantic Beach and Pine Knoll Shores should avoid unsupervised swimming areas.
Looking Ahead – Five Day Summer Weather Preview:
- Tuesday: Showers and storms return after 2 p.m., high near 74°F.
- Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, scattered storms, high near 80°F.
- Thursday: More rain expected after 2 p.m., high around 81°F.
- Friday: Partly sunny with isolated storms, high near 83°F.
- Saturday: Drying trend begins, sunny skies and a high near 84°F expected to start the weekend.
