There is a moderate risk for rip currents south of Oregon Inlet Saturday, July 13. This includes Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco, Hatteras Village and Ocracoke. Only experienced ocean swimmers who know how to escape a rip current should enter the water.

Never swim alone and always take a floatation device with you. The strongest rip currents typically occur in the hours before and after low tide, which will occur around 11:15 a.m. on July 13.

If caught in a rip current, remain calm. Don’t fight the current. Swim in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim back to shore. If tired, float or tread water until out of the rip current. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help.

Additionally, there is a moderate lightning threat with thunderstorms possible as well as heat index values up to 105 degrees. If help is needed, call 911.

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