A high risk of rip currents was forecast by the National Weather Service on Hatteras Island for today. The National Weather Service's high risk forecast means that wind, wave and tide conditions support the development of powerful or numerous rip currents along the beaches. The National Weather Service recommends that you stay out of the water when a high risk is present.
Although rip currents were reported in the area and the individual was found in the water, the cause of death is unknown at this time.
Superintendent David Hallac indicated that this is the 7th swimming-related fatality to occur in 2017 off the beaches of Cape Hatteras National Seashore and stated, "On behalf of Cape Hatteras National Seashore, I offer condolences to his family and friends."Editor's note: It breaks our hearts to post these press releases about drownings. Please be careful swimming at our beautiful beaches.