Sunny Skies Today, But Rip Current Risk Remains

OCEAN COUNTY, NJ - Hurricane Chris has moved on, but the rip currents from the offshore storm remain.

There's a moderate risk of rips today. Check with the local beach patrol for problem areas before you enter the water. Make sure you swim on an unguarded beach and never swim alone or at night. Always bring a flotation device when you in the water. There have already been a number of drownings this summer. Don't add your name to the list.

State Department of Environmental Protection officials issued a warning on Wednesday about swimming on unguarded beaches.

"It is dangerous and unlawful to swim in unguarded areas of state parks and wildlife management areas," said Ray Bukowski, DEP Assistant Commissioner for Natural and Historic Resources. "If you get into trouble swimming in an unguarded area, not only are you putting your life at risk but also the safety and lives of emergency personnel and Good Samaritans. Visitors must follow the rules and swim only where there are lifeguards."

Waves today will be three feet high, with southeasterly swells of around three feet. The ocean water temperature is 74 degrees. Minor coastal flooding is possible with this evenings high tide.

Skies today will be mostly sunny. Highs will be only in the upper 70s. Winds will be from the east at 5 to 10 miles per hour. The ultralight index is an 8, which the NWS considers very high. So don't forget the sunscreen.

High tide at Barnegat Inlet arrived at 7:36 a.m. Low tide will roll in at 1:46 p.m., followed by another high tide at 7:56 p.m.

Have a good day and be careful out there!

Photo: Barnegat Light Beach Patrol