High rip current risk for New Hanover Co., Pender Co. beaches Oct. 10

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) - The rip current risk is high for all beaches in Pender and New Hanover counties on Thursday, Oct. 10, according to the National Weather Service.

The east-facing beach of Bald Head Island is also included in the elevated risk.

“Life-threatening rip currents are likely. The surf zone is dangerous for all levels of swimmers. Stay out of the water. Remember to heed the advice of the local beach patrol and flag warning systems,” the NWS states.

The rest of the beaches in Brunswick County are under a moderate rip current risk. Beachgoers are asked to exercise caution.

The full NWS beach forecast map can be viewed here.

“If you become caught in a rip current, yell for help and remain calm. Do not exhaust yourself and stay afloat while waiting for help. If you have to swim out of a rip current, swim parallel to shore and back toward the beach when possible. Do not attempt to swim directly against a rip current as you will tire quickly,” the National Weather Service explains.