Wilmigton, NC – Forecasters warn that rip currents could be a problem along the Cape Fear coast this week.
A moderate risk of rip currents has been a consistent theme this summer. National Weather Service Meteorologist Josh Weiss says swimmers have had to grapple with them more often than usual. Weiss says that the rip currents are a result of a high pressure system hovering offshore since last month, forcing water onto the coastline.
"When that happens, we get this slightly larger, slightly longer period swell and the stronger coastline winds, which contribute to more wave energy being focused toward the coast and hence a higher risk of rip currents," Weiss said.
Weis says beachgoers can expect a moderate risk of rip currents through the week. He says rip currents are often worse at low tide and near piers and jetties.