UPDATED: Delmarva Beaches – Swimming in Ocean Prohibited Because of Dangerous Surf & Rip Currents

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UPDATE (Sussex County Beach Areas)- 8/21/25:

 

UPDATE (Ocean City, MD) 8/21/25:

The Town of Ocean City’s Department of Emergency Management continues to monitor Hurricane Erin as the storm progresses along the Atlantic Coast.

At this time, Ocean City is experiencing rough surf, strong rip currents, and periods of heavy wind associated with the storm. Coastal flooding is expected during this evening/tonight particularly in low-lying areas and downtown. Residents and visitors are urged to take precautions and avoid driving through flooded roadways. Emergency Services Director Joe Theobald says that while Ocean City is not in the direct path of Hurricane Erin, the storm’s impacts will be felt along the coastline. Officials strongly advise everyone to stay alert, monitor weather updates, and follow all safety advisories.

Additional Info from the Town of Ocean City:

 

Key Updates and Safety Reminders:

 

• Beach Advisory: Swimming and surfing remain prohibited until further notice due to hazardous surf and dangerous rip currents.
• Flooding: Coastal flooding is expected in the downtown area and other low-lying sections of town, especially during high tide cycles.
• Travel Advisory: Motorists should use caution, avoid flooded roadways, and allow extra time for travel.
• Emergency Preparedness: Residents and visitors are encouraged to secure outdoor furniture and belongings, charge electronic devices, and have emergency supplies on hand.

The Town of Ocean City will continue to provide updates as conditions evolve. For the latest information, visit www.oceancitymd.gov or the National Weather Service Wakefield at www.weather.gov/wakefield.

 

UPDATE-(Dewey Beach) 8/20/25:

Effects from Hurricane Erin, the center of which forecasters say will remain offshore, are expected to impact the area as early as this afternoon, and continue through Thursday, possibly into Friday. Rip currents and high surf are possible this afternoon into this evening. For tomorrow, expect high winds, dangerously high surf and rip currents, with likely beach erosion. Flooding is likely during times of high tide. On Friday, rip currents and high surf are possible. Residents and visitors are encouraged to secure outdoor items and consider moving vehicles to higher ground – especially those on the bay side where flooding is common. Updates regarding beach and ocean closures will be posted to the Town of Dewey Beach website and social media.

Click here for details from the National Weather Service

 

Earlier Posts:

Rehoboth Beach has a red flag warning for high hazard because of the effects from Hurricane Erin which will pass offshore this week causing rough surf, rip currents and coastal erosion. The Rehoboth Beach Patrol is prohibiting swimming during this time.

Bethany Beach is prohibiting swimming due to dangerous surf conditions and rip currents. The beach remains open.

In Ocean City, a Beach Advisory – public access to the water is closed until further notice.   As Hurricane Erin continues on the path offshore, the Town of Ocean City is anticipating dangerous surf zone conditions, large waves, and the potential for coastal flooding according to US National Weather Service Wakefield VA.  Earlier Tuesday, officials in Ocean City placed barriers along the cement section of the boardwalk to keep sand from blowing onto the boardwalk.   

Assateague State Park has issued double red flag conditions this morning, meaning no ocean access is permitted (including swimming, surfing, and wading). The beach remains open at this time, but as conditions worsen and storm surge increases, it may be closed if access becomes unsafe.

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UPDATED:   The Town of Fenwick Island is restricting beach access due to dangerous surf conditions. Until further notice, the beach is closed and swimming is prohibited. Lifeguards will be monitoring the beach. Stay safe.

South Bethany:  Ocean access is closed in South Bethany due to dangerous waves and riptides. At this time, the beach remains opened for walking, but do not enter the water. We will continue to update the public on beach and ocean conditions. Lifeguards are stationed at N. 6^th St.; S. 2^nd St.; and Indian St. and “No Swimming” flags are posted. 

Delaware Seashore State Park & Fenwick Island State Park – All surf drive-on crossings and swimming beaches at Delaware Seashore State Park and Fenwick Island State Park are closed due to high surf and unsafe conditions. Monitoring will continue over the next several days and updates will be provided when available.

Dewey Beach as of about 9:30 a.m. on 8/20/25:

Update from the Dewey Beach Town Manager 
After further discussion with the lifeguard captain:
Swimmers are being allowed in the water today up to knee depth. Surfers and boogie boarders are permitted to go out. Conditions may change at any time, so officials ask that you use caution and follow lifeguard instructions.

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