SOUTHEASTERN N.C. ––– Lifeguard squads conducted 50 rescues from Wrightsville Beach to Carolina Beach on Friday alone, the National Weather Service Wilmington shared in a Facebook post Saturday.
Disturbed waters caused by a then-distant Tropical Depression Henri spurred increased rip currents, a risk that has improved but will remain elevated through early this week.
Tropical Depression Henri made landfall off the coast of Rhode Island Sunday afternoon, weakening after approaching as a Category 1 hurricane. After making its way inland Sunday evening, since downgraded to a tropical depression, the storm is projected to reach the coast of Maine early Tuesday morning.
Sunday morning, NWS Wilmington shared a forecast depicting moderate risk of rip currents from Holden Beach to Surf City, stating only experienced swimmers with training on how to escape the abnormalities should enter the water.
If caught in a rip current, yell for help and do not exhaust yourself. Remain calm while awaiting assistance. Swim parallel to the shore to exit the current before turning back to the shore upon escaping the force. Swimming against the current is dangerous and will exhaust even an experienced swimmer.
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