Morehead City, N.C. – Swimmers on North Carolina’s Outer Banks face a serious threat from dangerous rip currents and strong longshore currents through Tuesday evening. These hazardous conditions can sweep even the strongest swimmers into deeper water.
According to the National Weather Service Newport/Morehead City, a Beach Hazards Statement remains in effect from 8 AM EDT Tuesday through Tuesday evening. The affected areas include the beaches from Cape Lookout to Surf City, extending to Ocracoke Island. Rip currents can carry individuals away from shore, while strong longshore currents create dangerous swimming conditions. Lifeguards advise caution.
Coastal communities, including Newport and Morehead City, will also see scattered showers and thunderstorms developing Tuesday afternoon. Showers are likely around 2 PM, with a 30% chance of precipitation. Winds will gust up to 16 mph. Temperatures will reach a high of 78 degrees. Overnight lows will drop to 70 degrees.
Wednesday brings more showers and thunderstorms, primarily after 2 PM. There is a 50% chance of rain, with new rainfall amounts between a tenth and a quarter inch possible. Thursday continues the chance for showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2 PM, with a 30% chance of precipitation. Friday offers a 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms, mostly after 2 PM.
For the weekend, Saturday has a 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sunday continues with a 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Early next week, Monday and Tuesday maintain a 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Residents should monitor local weather updates. Warnings for rip currents remain in effect.
