State Officials May Close Beaches As Hurricane Chris Passes By

State officials are warning the public of strong rip currents as Hurricane Chris begins to pass by way off shore. Some Massachusetts beaches - particularly those in Southeastern Mass. - could be closed over the next 24 hours if conditions warrant.

It'll be a warm, sunny day, but the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation says it may not be a great day for swimming at the beach. The DCR focused Wednesday on Horseneck Beach State Reservation in Westport, but warned of dangerous rip currents conditions in other areas along the coast.

"The agency is closely monitoring all Department managed beaches along the coastline, and lifeguards and staff will alert visitors should conditions become dangerous," Commissioner Leo Roy said.

The DCR said in a statement, "The storm is likely to generate high surf and dangerous rip current conditions today and tomorrow along ocean beaches, particularly those located along Southern Massachusetts."

A hazardous weather outlook has been issued along the Massachusetts coast. The National Weather Service said "high surf and moderate rip currents are possible into tonight as Chris passes well east of the region."

Chris is a Category Two hurricane expected to pass by New England hundreds of miles to the east. While the rip currents may be strong and waves may reach several feet, the skies are expected to stay clear.

Photo by Mike Carraggi, Patch