Improving the Safety of Beachgoers
Rip currents are powerful, channelized currents of fast-moving water nearshore. They are prevalent along the East, Gulf, and West coasts of the United States. NOAA’s National Ocean Service, in collaboration with National Weather Service and other stakeholders, is implementing a new Rip Current Forecast Model (RCFM) in the Weather Forecast Offices of Morehead City, North Carolina and Miami, Florida. Ocean data is needed to validate the RCFM model and expand the forecast area.
SECOORA is partnering with NOAA to collect wave observations and visual rip current observations for Emerald Isle, NC. In 2015, SECOORA will be funding a project to address these gaps and collect the absent data. SECOORA is in the process of reviewing proposals. Check back at a later date for more information.
"Strong rip currents are a significant hazard for beachgoers. Our partnership with SECOORA on this project to help validate our wave model and rip current predictions is a key step in improving our rip current forecasts." - Richard S. Bandy, Meteorologist-in-Charge, NWS, Weather Forecast Office Newport/Morehead City, NC
Rip current modeling is important to ensure the public can have a safe day to enjoy the beach.
Rip currents are powerful, channelized currents of fast-moving water nearshore. They are prevalent along the East, Gulf, and West coasts of the United States. NOAA’s National Ocean Service, in collaboration with National Weather Service and other stakeholders, is implementing a new Rip Current Forecast Model (RCFM) in the Weather Forecast Offices of Morehead City, North Carolina and Miami, Florida. Ocean data is needed to validate the RCFM model and expand the forecast area.
SECOORA is partnering with NOAA to collect wave observations and visual rip current observations for Emerald Isle, NC. In 2015, SECOORA will be funding a project to address these gaps and collect the absent data. SECOORA is in the process of reviewing proposals. Check back at a later date for more information.
"Strong rip currents are a significant hazard for beachgoers. Our partnership with SECOORA on this project to help validate our wave model and rip current predictions is a key step in improving our rip current forecasts." – Richard S. Bandy, Meteorologist-in-Charge, NWS, Weather Forecast Office Newport/Morehead City, NC
Rip current modeling is important to ensure the public can have a safe day to enjoy the beach.
Related news
Webinar | Preparing for Hurricane Season with SECOORA: Observing Systems, Data, and Tools
When a storm is approaching, having the right data matters. Join us on May 6 at 11:00 AM ET to explore how SECOORA’s observing systems, data, and tools can support hurricane monitoring and informed decision-making.
SET Webinar Series: Coastal Wetland Response in Apalachicola Bay
Join us on April 10, 2026, from 2:00 - 3:00 PM for the SECOORA SET Webinar Series, where we will explore coastal wetland change and monitoring in the Apalachicola Bay region. This webinar will bring together SET Community of Practice members and partners to examine monitoring approaches and implications for coastal resilience planning.
Funding Opportunity: Accepting Applications for 2026 Vembu Subramanian Ocean Scholars Award
Established in memory of Vembu Subramanian, this award supports the next generation of ocean professionals through mentorship, networking, and meaningful engagement at our Annual Meeting. Applications are due April 21, 2026.