Beach And Surf Report: August 9, 2015

Hit the beach. Summer is on the wane.

The National Weather Service is calling for mostly sunny skies today, with cooler temperatures in the upper 70s.

Beach winds will be from the northeast at 10 to 15 miles per hour. Waves will be around four feet, higher than earlier in the week, with southeast swells of two to three feet.

The water temperature will range from 70 to 75 degrees. There is a moderate risk of rip currents. That means wind and wave conditions support stronger or more frequent rip currents. Swim only in guarded areas and always have a flotation device with you in the water, the NWS advises.

Harvey Cedars on Long Beach Island has posted red flags and banned swimming due to rough surf, according to the Harvey Cedars Beach Patrol Facebook page.

“Due to continued dangerous ocean conditions, RED FLAGS ARE UP & SWIMMING IS PROHIBITED. Entering the water is only permitted up to your knees. Strong rip currents, powerful longshore currents, a rising tide, and large waves are hazardous and we ask that you please obey the lifeguards.”

Photo credit: Erin McGee Purul