WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) – The rip current risk is high for all beaches in southeastern North Carolina Friday, Aug. 16, according to the National Weather Service.

“Life threatening rip currents are likely. The surf zone is dangerous for all levels of swimmers. Stay out of the water. Remember to heed the advice of the local beach patrol and flag warning systems,” the NWS states.

The full NWS beach forecast map can be viewed here.

“If you become caught in a rip current, yell for help and remain calm. Do not exhaust yourself and stay afloat while waiting for help. If you have to swim out of a rip current, swim parallel to shore and back toward the beach when possible. Do not attempt to swim directly against a rip current as you will tire quickly,” the National Weather Service explains.

As Hurricane Ernesto passes to the east of N.C., dangerous rip currents and high surf are expected for area beaches for the next several days.

“Do not enter the surf under RED FLAG conditions,” the NWS adds. “Visit lifeguarded beaches, know how to get out of a rip current by swimming left or right (parallel to coast).”