Morning Beach Conditions

August 20, 2026

LOW rip current risk at all beaches today!

While the risk for rip currents is low from Duck to Ocracoke, life-threatening rip currents may still be present. Strongest rip currents often occur a couple hours either side of low tide, which was at 7: 30 am with the next low around 9 pm today.

Remember LOW risk does not mean NO risk!

Expect sunny skies today with high temperatures in the upper 80s. South to southeast winds around 5 to 10 mph. Surf height around 1 to 2 feet. Water temperatures: Duck Pier...79. Jennette’s Pier...80. Oregon Inlet Marina...81. Rodanthe Pier...80. Avon Pier...83.

Always swim near a lifeguard. If help is needed, know your location and call 911!

Beach nourishment project in Buxton. For location and timing information visit www.morebeachtolove.com

Check out videos and beach safety information featuring Dare County locals.

These short videos feature OBX lifeguards, surf photographers and pro surfers.

Image of a young man on the beach running into the ocean in the Outer Banks with his surfboard

Local Tips

Image of a lifeguard station in the Outer Banks.

Find a Lifeguard

Want to manage your alert preferences? Check out this video.

If you have signed up for text alerts and would like to be unsubscribed, you can text “STOP” to 77295. Texting “START” will resume / reinstate the alert messages. Message and data rates may apply.

Morning Beach Conditions

August 20, 2026

Want to manage your alert preferences? Check out this video. If you have signed up for text alerts and would like to be unsubscribed, you can text “STOP” to 77295. Texting “START” will resume / reinstate the alert messages.​ Message and data rates may apply.

Want to manage your alert preferences? Check out this video.

If you have signed up for text alerts and would like to be unsubscribed, you can text “STOP” to 77295. Texting “START” will resume / reinstate the alert messages. Message and data rates may apply.