Myrtle Beach on High Alert for Rip Currents as Hurricane Ernesto Approaches

News Summary

Myrtle Beach faces a beach hazards warning as Hurricane Ernesto brings potentially dangerous rip currents. The National Weather Service advises beachgoers to prioritize safety and stay vigilant while enjoying the shores. A moderate risk of rip currents has been issued for tomorrow, compounding with life-threatening surf conditions affecting the East Coast. Officials emphasize the importance of checking with lifeguards and understanding flag warnings. Stay safe and reconsider your beach plans ahead of the storm’s impact!

Myrtle Beach on High Alert for Rip Currents as Hurricane Ernesto Approaches

Folks enjoying the sandy shores of Myrtle Beach should hit the brakes on their beach plans for tomorrow! The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a beach hazards statement effective Tuesday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., warning of potentially dangerous rip currents fueled by the presence of Hurricane Ernesto.

What to Expect

According to the NWS, a strong south-to-north longshore current is expected, particularly in the morning. This means that if you’re thinking of taking a dip or riding the waves, you might want to think again! The forecast indicates a moderate risk of rip currents, making it essential for swimmers and surfers to stay vigilant.

Rip currents can quickly turn a fun day at the beach into a dangerous situation, sweeping unsuspecting beachgoers towards perilous areas like piers and jetties. Thus, anyone planning to wade into the water is urged to check in with local lifeguards about potential hazards before taking the plunge. Remember: safety first!

Understanding Hurricane Ernesto

As of the latest updates, Hurricane Ernesto is no joking matter. With maximum sustained winds of 85 mph and moving north-northeast at 21 mph, it’s making waves both literally and figuratively. Although the storm is expected to weaken as it approaches southeastern Newfoundland, its effects are already being felt along the East Coast.

The Broader Impact

It’s not just Myrtle Beach feeling the heat. The NWS is also reporting that life-threatening surf and rip currents are foreseeable from North Carolina all the way up to Rhode Island. That’s about ten million people under coastal flood advisories due to rising sea levels and high tides! With big waves likely coinciding with the high tide on Sunday evening, coastal flooding is a genuine concern.

Over in New York City, swimming at some beaches in Brooklyn and Queens has been suspended due to rip current issues. Similarly, New Jersey beach officials are advising everyone to stay on dry land until lifeguards are present to ensure safety.

Stay Safe!

Tragically, the recent days have seen incidents of drowning linked to rip currents. A man lost his life off Surf City, NC, and two victims drowned near Hilton Head, SC, although their ties to Hurricane Ernesto remain unclear. Adding to this seriousness, reports indicate that a coastal structure in North Carolina collapsed into the ocean, thankfully without any injuries being reported.

Myrtle Beach city officials emphasize the importance of being vigilant about rip currents, stating that about 80% of rescues at the beach are due to these hazardous water currents. Lifeguards are on duty, monitoring conditions and sharing safety information with those who choose to brave the waves.

Know Your Flags!

To help beachgoers stay informed, most beaches utilize a flag system indicating ocean conditions: blue flags mean marine wildlife is present, green flags indicate safe swimming conditions, yellow flags are a caution sign for medium hazards, and red flags warn of increased risk of rip currents. If you see a red flag, it’s best to stay out of the water!

So, if you’re gearing up for a day at Myrtle Beach tomorrow, think twice before going into the ocean. Make smart choices and prioritize your safety while enjoying the natural beauty around you. The beach will always be there, but your safety is what matters most!

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Additional Resources

• Island Packet
• Wikipedia: Rip Current
• WMBF News
• Google Search: Hurricane Ernesto
• NBC News
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricane
• CBS17
• Google News: Rip Currents North Carolina