UPDATE: Beach hazards statement in place for Hatteras and Ocracoke until Thursday evening

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The NWS Newport/Morehead City NC issued an updated beach hazards statement at 4:02 a.m. on Thursday valid between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. The statement is for East Carteret, Ocracoke Island and Hatteras Island.

"Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water," explains the NWS. "Life-threatening rip currents. If caught in a rip current, remain calm. Swim in a direction following the shoreline. If tired, float or tread water until out of the rip current. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help."

This statement is in effect until 8 p.m.

Source: The National Weather Service

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This story was originally published April 15, 2026 at 4:03 AM.