Another Gloomy Day Ahead At Ocean County Beaches

OCEAN COUNTY, NJ - Skies at Ocean County beaches will stay cloudy today, with a chance of showers and a slight chance of thunderstorms, the National Weather Service says.

Highs will be in the upper 70s, with winds from the east at 10 miles per hour. The lightning threat is moderate, which means that thunderstorms are possible.

The rip current risk is moderate, as it has been for most of the month. Always check with your local beach patrol about problem areas before heading into the water. Never swim on an unguarded beach and never swim alone or at night. Rips can occur at anytime, any place. Don't let your guard down. The NWS suggests you always have a flotation device with you in the water.

Waves will be around 3 feet, with easterly swells of 2 to 3 feet. The ocean water temperature is 76 degrees, but that could vary depending upon what beach you pick.

The ultraviolet index is an 8, which the NWS considers very high. So you could still burn, despite the clouds. Don't forget the sunscreen.

Low tide at Barnegat Inlet will arrive at 10:52 a.m. High tide will roll in at 5:06 p.m., followed by another low tide at 11:40 p.m.

Have a nice day and be careful out there!

Photo: Long Beach Township Beach Patrol