High Rip Current Risk Through Thursday, June 18
OAK ISLAND, NC — The National Weather Service has upgraded beach conditions to RED FLAG for Oak Island for the remainder of Thursday, June 18, due to hazardous surf and a high risk of rip currents.
Under a RED FLAG, no safe water depth is identified, and ocean swimming or any in‑water activity is strongly discouraged.
According to the National Weather Service, today’s rough surf is being driven by a combination of persistent south‑to‑southeast swell and long‑period wave energy linked to a tropical system in the Gulf of Mexico. Although the system poses no direct threat to North Carolina, its distant swells are reaching the Carolina coastline and contributing to stronger shore‑breaking waves and unstable surf zones.
Beach areas remain open, but officials urge visitors to stay out of the water until conditions improve.
Rip currents under RED FLAG conditions can form quickly, shift without warning, and overpower even experienced swimmers.
Local officials advise beachgoers to monitor updates from the Town of Oak Island, the National Weather Service, and local lifeguards throughout the day.
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