Wrightsville Beach highlights rip current dangers during awareness week

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, NC (WWAY) — The Town of Wrightsville Beach is urging residents and visitors to stay vigilant as Rip Current Awareness Week runs from April 26 through May 2.

Officials say rip currents–strong, narrow channels of water that flow away from shore — are the most dangerous and common hazard facing beachgoers along the coasts of North and South Carolina and around the world.

According to the United States Lifesaving Association, rip currents are responsible for roughly 100 drowning deaths each year in the United States and account for more than 80% of lifeguard rescues. In the Carolinas alone, 196 rip current-related drownings were reported between 2000 and 2025 — an average of about eight per year — making them the leading weather-related cause of death in the region.

Beachgoers are encouraged to learn how to spot rip currents and understand how to respond if caught in one by visiting resources from the National Weather Service.

As the busy beach season approaches, officials are reminding the public to use caution when entering the water.

“If in doubt, don’t go out,” the town advises.