Morehead City, North Carolina – Life-threatening rip currents and spotty coastal flooding are making North Carolina’s eastern beaches hazardous through Sunday, with the worst impacts stretching from Duck to Buxton.
According to the National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City, a high rip current risk is in place for the northern Outer Banks, including Duck, Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head, Rodanthe, Salvo, Avon, and Buxton. These areas are experiencing the most dangerous surf conditions. A moderate risk persists further south from Frisco to Cape Lookout, while beaches like Atlantic Beach, Emerald Isle, and North Topsail are under a low-risk zone—but still warned of threats near piers and jetties.
A coastal flood advisory also remains in effect Sunday for east-facing beaches, particularly near Rodanthe, Avon, and Frisco, where ocean overwash is possible during high tide.
Despite these marine hazards, inland areas are enjoying unseasonably cool temperatures, with highs only reaching the low 80s and overnight lows dipping into the low 60s around Greenville, Kinston, and Jacksonville. Beach towns like Frisco and Rodanthe will stay milder, holding in the upper 70s to near 80.
Hazardous surf conditions are expected to linger into Monday, and additional advisories may be issued. Swimmers and boaters are urged to avoid the water and stay informed.
