Calmer Seas Prevail At Ocean County Beaches Today

OCEAN COUNTY, NJ - If you were to rate beach conditions, today would be pretty close to a "ten."

The National Weather Service is calling for sunny skies and fairly calm seas. Highs today will only be in the upper 70s, with southeasterly winds from 5 to 10 miles per hour.

Waves will be around 2 feet, with southerly swells of 2 feet. The ocean water temperature is a balmy 76 degrees, although that may vary depending upon which beach you decide to swim in. The rip current risk is low, but rips are always possible, especially near jetties and other structures. The NWS suggests you always have a flotation device with you in the water.

But be sure to check with your local beach patrol about any problem areas. Always swim on a guarded beach and never, ever swim alone or at night. A man died this week after he swam on an unguarded Ocean City beach after hours. Don't be a statistic.

There's no rain in sight for today, so there is no lightning threat. The ultraviolet index is a 9, which the NWS considers very high, so don't forget your sunscreen, or you'll be sorry tonight.

Low tide at Barnegat Inlet arrived at 8:53 a.m. High tide will roll in at 3 p.m., followed by another low tide at 9:29 p.m.

Have a great day and be careful out there!

Photo: Patricia A. Miller