SOUTHEASTERN N.C. — According to the National Weather Service, rip currents along the North Carolina coast remain moderate throughout Memorial Day weekend.
On Saturday, May 28, over a dozen people were rescued across the southeastern shoreline. In Carolina Beach, the National Weather Service reported 16 people were rescued and at least three in Wrightsville Beach.
Ocean water rescue in Oak Island helped one swimmer at the W. 23rd Beach Access, according to a social media post on its official page.
“Beachgoers rescued the person from the water and began CPR as OIFD’s paramedic equipped engine was arriving,” it noted.
Crews had to clear the access in order to transport the patient safely to the Brunswick County EMS paramedic ambulance.
“We are very thankful to those on the beach who jumped into action to bring the victim ashore and began resuscitation efforts,” the post continued.
It’s not apparent whether a rip current was the cause of the Oak Island Water Rescue response.
A moderate warning remains in effect Sunday, which means the currents can be life threatening. Essentially a channel of water flowing away from the shore, rip currents can extend from the shoreline and surf zone past breaking waves.
The NWS suggests swimmers enter waters near lifeguard stands and pay attention to the flag warning systems forewarning beachgoers about water conditions.
Anyone caught in a current should not swim against it rather stay afloat, remain calm and call for help.
“If you have to swim out of a rip current, swim parallel to shore and back toward the beach when possible,” NWS noted.
The NWS reported rip currents will be low risk on Memorial Day into Wednesday.
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