News Release

Cape Hatteras National Seashore warns visitors of dangerous ocean conditions associated with distant Hurricane Ernesto

News Release Date: August 16, 2024

Contact: Mike Barber, 252-475-9032

MANTEO, N.C. — Cape Hatteras National Seashore (Seashore) warns its visitors that ocean conditions are forecast to be dangerous along all beaches today through this weekend, due to distant Hurricane Ernesto. Visitors are urged to avoid swimming in the ocean until conditions improve. Additionally, visitors are urged to use caution while walking on the beach or participating in water activities at the north end of Rodanthe, due to the presence of threatened oceanfront structures.

Even though Hurricane Ernesto is forecast to pass well to the east of the Seashore this weekend, strong swells from the storm will combine with higher-than-normal tides. Large breaking waves, life-threatening rip currents, beach erosion, and ocean overwash are all possible, according to the National Weather Service’s Newport/Morehead City Weather Reporting Office.

Due to the potential for ocean overwash, travelers should use caution around the hours of high tide along vulnerable areas of N.C. Highway 12, particularly at the north end of Ocracoke Island and between Hatteras and Frisco, from today, Friday, August 16 through at least Sunday, August 18. Travelers can monitor road conditions at https://drivenc.com.

Visit the National Hurricane Center webpage for updates on Hurricane Ernesto. To view the daily beach conditions forecast, visit the Love The Beach, Respect The Ocean website.