Morning Beach Conditions
September 23, 2026
A DOUBLE RED FLAG day with HIGH rip current risk at all ocean beaches from Duck to Ocracoke. Ocean conditions have brought powerful rip/longshore currents and 8-to-12-foot breaking surf making conditions life-threatening for swimmers and ocean rescue personnel. Ocean swimming is not allowed, stay out of the water!
Strongest rip currents often occur a couple hours either side of low tide, which happens around 11: 30 am today.
Click here for a BEACH WARNING FLAG information video.
Expect mostly cloudy skies today with rain likely and a slight chance of thunderstorms. Temperatures in the mid to upper 70s. Windy. Northeast winds at 25 to 30 mph. Surf height 8-to-12 feet with life threatening shore break. Water temperatures: Duck Pier...79, Jennettes Pier...78, Oregon Inlet Marina...80, Rodanthe Pier...76, Avon Pier...79.
Need a REDFLAG day beach alternative? Check out Red Flag Days | LTBRTO for options and partner discounts.
Ocean Rescue staffing is at off season levels, with beaches covered by roving patrols. If help is needed, know your location and call 911!
Beach nourishment project in Buxton. For location and timing information visit www.morebeachtolove.com
More beach safety tips at www.lovethebeachrespecttheocean.com
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