News Summary
Virginia Beach is experiencing hazardous surf conditions due to strong winds and rip currents as Hurricane Erin approaches. Winds gusting over 30 mph create dangerous conditions for swimmers, leading to nearly 200 rescues by lifeguards. Beach officials advise against entering the water. A moderate rip current risk is in effect, with improved conditions expected midweek. Tropical Storm Dexter further complicates safety efforts, while local authorities monitor the situation and urge residents to take precautions as evacuation orders are issued for some areas.
Virginia Beach Faces Hazardous Conditions Due to Strong Winds and Rip Currents Amid Hurricane Erin’s Approach
Virginia Beach and eastern Currituck County are currently grappling with strong winds and dangerous rip currents, following the approach of Hurricane Erin. Winds are reported to gust over 30 mph, creating rough surf conditions that have posed significant risks for swimmers in the area. According to the National Weather Service in Wakefield, a moderate rip current risk is in effect through Monday evening, prompting beach officials to recommend that individuals refrain from entering the water.
The breezy northeast winds are sustained between 18 and 21 mph, contributing to hazardous surf conditions. Drivers on U.S. Route 60 near Virginia Beach are also advised to expect slower traffic due to blowing sand and reduced visibility caused by these strong winds. Although the rip current threat is projected to diminish by Tuesday, light showers may contribute to slick road conditions.
Looking ahead, there is a 20% chance of precipitation forecasted for Tuesday night, which increases to 30% on Wednesday as light showers are expected. However, midweek conditions are anticipated to improve as skies clear and temperatures reach the mid-70s. Overnight lows will drop to the upper 60s, signaling a shift toward fall weather.
The lifeguards in Virginia Beach have been actively engaged in rescuing swimmers over the weekend, with nearly 200 rescues reported due to treacherous rip currents. The Virginia Beach Lifeguards Association indicated that around 100 rescues occurred across three beaches, successfully saving 180 individuals in total.
Tropical Storm Dexter Impacts Hampton Roads
The effects of Tropical Storm Dexter have contributed to rough surf conditions and heightened rip current risks in the Hampton Roads area, complicating the beach safety landscape. The Outer Banks also faced a “double red flag day,” categorically prohibiting ocean swimming due to hazardous conditions.
Rip currents are powerful currents that move away from shore, and they present significant dangers for swimmers who may find themselves caught in these unpredictable waters. Despite the risks, local surfers have been taking advantage of the choppy waters produced by Hurricane Erin, which has been classified as a Category 4 storm.
City Monitoring and Precautions
City officials are engaging in enhanced monitoring of the situation, considering potential impacts from Hurricane Erin. In response to the approaching hurricane, residents are being urged to ensure that their properties are secure as a precautionary measure. Mandatory evacuation orders have been implemented for Hatteras Island in anticipation of the storm’s impacts.
The coastline of Virginia Beach is expected to experience high waves, potentially reaching 15 feet, along with storm surges ranging from 1 to 3 feet. Wave heights resulting from the storm may peak this week, leading to hazardous surf conditions that are likely to persist through the upcoming weekend.
Calls for Caution and Preparedness
Despite the risks, no beach closures are currently planned for Virginia Beach. However, residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and keep updated on local weather warnings and advisories before proceeding to the beach. A state of emergency has been declared in Dare County, although most rain impacts inland are expected to be minimal, with the primary threat remaining coastal waves and potential flooding.
As Virginia Beach prepares for Hurricane Erin’s approach, local authorities emphasize the importance of safety and preparedness measures for residents and beachgoers alike.
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Additional Resources
- 13 News Now
- WAVY
- WTKR
- News Leader
- Fox 5 DC
- Wikipedia: Rip Current
- Google Search: Hurricane Erin
- Google Scholar: Rip Currents
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rip Current
- Google News: Virginia Beach Hurricane Erin
Author: STAFF HERE VIRGINIA BEACH WRITER
VIRGINIA BEACH STAFF WRITER The VIRGINIA BEACH STAFF WRITER represents the seasoned team at HEREVirginiaBeach.com, your trusted source for actionable local news and information in Virginia Beach, Virginia Beach City, and beyond, delivering "news you can use" with comprehensive coverage of product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news impacting the region—supported by years of expert reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates, while offering top reporting on high-profile events like the Virginia Beach Neptune Festival, East Coast Surfing Championship, and military homecoming celebrations, alongside key organizations such as the Virginia Aquarium, Virginia Beach Convention Center, and Oceana Naval Air Station, plus leading businesses in tourism and defense like Busch Gardens and Northrop Grumman, and as part of the broader HERE network including HEREWilliamsburg.com, providing credible, in-depth insights into Virginia's vibrant landscape. HERE Virginia Beach HERE Williamsburg
