Rip currents are powerful, channeled currents of water flowing away from shore, according to the National Weather Service. They typically extend from the shoreline, through the surf zone, and past the line of breaking waves. 

• Low Risk: The risk for rip currents is low, however, life threatening rip currents often occur in the vicinity of groins, jetties, reefs, and piers.
• Moderate Risk: Life threatening rip currents are possible in the surf zone.
• High Risk: Life threatening rip currents are likely in the surf zone.

Rip currents can occur along the North Carolina coast at any beach with breaking waves. Rip currents account for over 80% of rescues performed by surf beach lifeguards, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). 

Find out how rip currents form and how to to survive if you're caught in a rip current.