Severe Thunderstorms Expected in Eastern North Carolina on Monday, June 24

Eastern North Carolina is bracing for a series of severe thunderstorms forecasted to hit the region on Monday, June 24, according to a recent update by the National Weather Service Newport/Morehead City offices.

Conditions Predicted

The risk of strong storms is estimated to be highest between 2-9 p.m., with the primary threats being damaging wind gusts of up to 60 mph or more and the possibility of large hail. Additionally, the risk of isolated tornadoes, while minor, has been highlighted by the weather service, as well as the likelihood of heavy rains.

Beware of Rip Currents

Alongside the storm warning, a high risk of rip currents is also anticipated for all beaches south of Cape Hatteras, with a moderate risk of rip currents extending from Pea Island to Buxton. As a result, the public is being urged to verify surfing and swimming conditions before heading to the beach.

How to Stay Safe

The daily beach forecast provided at the Dare County’s Love The Beach, Respect The Ocean website covers a range of rip current risk levels, as well as information on other potential shoreline hazards. This online resource can be instrumental in ensuring beach safety.

For More on Local Weather

For further updates and information on the local forecast, you can visit The National Weather Service’s Newport/Morehead City Facebook page, which provides trustworthy and current weather conditions.

Rip Current Safety: How to Protect Yourself

Rip currents are powerful currents of water that pose a significant risk to even the most experienced swimmers. Understanding how to identify them and what to do if caught in one is essential to ensure your safety during these conditions.

• How to Identify Rip Currents: Look for areas where waves are not breaking or where there is a break in the pattern of incoming waves. Other signs can include an area of discolored water due to the rip current pulling sediment and debris out to sea or a line of foam, seaweed, or debris moving steadily seaward.
• What to Do if You’re Caught in a Rip Current: First, don’t panic or try to swim against the current. Instead, swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current, then swim back to the beach. If you can’t make it to the shore, wave or yell for help.

During stormy conditions or high-risk rip current periods, it is recommended to stay out of the water, particularly if you are not an experienced swimmer. Life is precious. Let’s keep safety first!