Rip Current Risk Low, But Lightning Threat Looms

MONMOUTH COUNTY, NJ - The good news is the rip current risk at Monmouth County beaches today is low. But there's a chance of thunderstorms, the National Weather Service says.

However, rip currents can still develop, especially near jetties and other infrastructures. The NWS suggests you bring a flotation device with you in the water. Never swim on an unguarded beach and never swim alone or at night.

Waves will be around four feet, with light swells. The ocean water temperature is still a chilly 57 degrees.

Cloudy skies and patchy fog are expected, but the ultraviolet index is an 8, which the NWS considers very high.

Thunderstorms are possible today and the lightning risk is moderate. Highs today will be in the upper 60s. Winds will be from the southeast at 10 miles per hour.

High tide at Belmar arrived at 9:17 a.m. Low tide will roll in at 3:10 p.m., followed by another high tide at 9:28 p.m.

Photo: Courtesy of Brian R. Amento