Ocean County Beaches Offer Relief From Late Summer Heat Wave

OCEAN COUNTY, NJ - If the mainland heat is too much for you today, head for the beach.

The National Weather Service is calling for sunny skies with highs in the upper 80s. Winds will be from the southwest at 5 to 10 miles per hour. There is no lightning threat.

The beach could be a welcome respite from the torrid temperatures inland. The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory from noon today until 8 p.m. on Wednesday, with heat index values from 100 to 104 degrees this afternoon and Wednesday afternoon.

The state Department of Environmental Protection has also issued an air quality alert for the entire county today.

The rip current risk is low today. But rips can still occur anytime, anyplace, especially near jetties and other structures. Check with your local beach patrol about any problem areas. Never swim on an unguarded beach and never swim alone or at night.

Waves will be around 2 feet, gradually building to 3 feet in the afternoon, with light swells. The ocean water temperature is 75 degrees, although that may vary depending upon what beach you go to. The ultraviolet index is an 8, which the NWS considers very high. So don't forget your sunscreen.

High tide at Barnegat Inlet arrived at 9:34 a.m. Low tide will roll in at 3:50 p.m., followed by another high tide at 9:48 p.m.

Have a nice day and be careful out there!

Photo: by Patricia A. Miller