Rip current warning issued for some Carolina beaches

Beware if you’re headed to the beach today.

The surf is expected to be rough with a moderate risk of rip current and strong longshore currents today, according to officials with the National Weather Service in Wilmington, N.C.

A statement warning about hazardous beach conditions was issued by the weather service about 5 a.m. Wednesday for Horry, Georgetown, Pender County, N.C. and New Hanover County, N.C. coastal areas and is in effect until 9 p.m., officials said.

Weather authorities are also warning of strong winds from the north expected to be about 20 miles per hour with even higher gusts.

Officials said the highest risk of rip currents will be two hours before and after low tide, which will be about 10 a.m. Wednesday.

The surf is also expected to reach heights of 3 to 4 feet.

The strong north to south longshore currents could cause swimmers to drift quickly, forecasters said.

Officials advised staying in shallow water and said swimmers should pay close attention to their location on the beach.

This story was originally published September 23, 2015 at 10:14 AM with the headline "Rip current warning issued for some Carolina beaches."