Ernesto sends big swell and rip currents to Delaware

Delaware is in line for some severe weather, both related and unrelated to the offshore passing of Hurricane Ernesto.

The National Weather Service issued a coastal flood advisory for Saturday night’s high tide along the Delaware River in New Castle and Kent counties. In New Castle County, the advisory extends from 8 p.m. to midnight. In Kent, the advisory extends from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. In both, up to a foot of water could accumulate in low-lying areas or tidal waterways along the coast, the weather service advises.

It also issued a rip current statement for Sussex County beaches until midnight on Aug. 19, warning of 4-7 foot waves along the shore. The same statement applies to all New Jersey beaches. A small craft advisory is also in effect for Delaware’s coastal waters through 6 p.m. on Monday.

Hurricane Ernesto to blame for rip currents risk

National Weather Service meteorologist Lee Robertson said the hazardous water conditions are related to Category 1 Hurricane Ernesto, which is impacting Bermuda in the Atlantic.

“Whenever there’s a tropical system out there off the East Coast, the wave action is enhanced along the East Coast, and it can lead to higher risk of rip currents,” Robertson said.

He said the best way to avoid rip currents if going to the beach this weekend is staying out of the water. If you find yourself in a rip current, stay calm and try to swim parallel to the shore. If you are unable to swim out of the current, face the shore and wave for help. Always swim in front of a lifeguard.

Severe weather unrelated to Hurricane Ernesto

Along with the many coastal hazards this weekend, there is a threat of severe weather Saturday evening and Sunday. The weather service forecasted between 1.5 and 2 inches of rain for parts of New Castle County including Wilmington and Newark. Dover could see up to an inch and a half, and the beaches and the rest of Sussex County could see an inch of rain through Sunday night.

Robertson said these storms, which are unrelated to Ernesto, could bring damaging winds along with the heavy rainfall into Sunday night.

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Shane Brennan covers New Castle County with a focus on Newark and surrounding communities. Reach out with ideas, tips or feedback at slbrennan@delawareonline.com. Follow @shanebrennan36 on X, formerly Twitter, for the latest news and updates.