Virginia – Rough surf and dangerous rip currents are keeping swimmers out of the water along Virginia Beach and North Carolina’s Outer Banks this Saturday. Officials warn that waves reaching up to 5 feet will make conditions treacherous through tonight, with strong rip currents posing a serious threat to anyone entering the ocean.
According to the National Weather Service in Wakefield, a Beach Hazards Statement remains in effect until Saturday evening for Virginia Beach and Eastern Currituck County. The agency urges swimmers to stay out of the water and beachgoers to use caution near the surf. While conditions improve Sunday, lifeguards expect stronger currents near jetties and piers to remain risky.
Drivers along U.S. Route 60, which runs parallel to the shoreline in Virginia Beach, may see heavier traffic Saturday as swimmers opt for dry sand activities. Emergency officials stress avoiding non-essential swimming and keeping children away from breaking surf until conditions stabilize.
The broader weather picture brings relief Sunday with mostly sunny skies and calmer seas. By Monday, scattered showers could move into Hampton Roads, with higher rain chances by Tuesday and Wednesday. Temperatures will remain mild, with highs in the mid-70s through midweek, making for a pleasant stretch once the rip current risk eases.
Five-Day Forecast for Virginia Beach, VA:
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 76°F.
- Monday: Slight chance of showers after 2 p.m., high 76°F.
- Tuesday: Showers likely, breezy, high 75°F.
- Wednesday: Chance of showers, high 74°F.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 80°F.
