Watch out for longshore currents if you’re swimming at Grand Strand beaches today

If you’re planning on taking a dip in the ocean Thursday, you’ll want to watch out for longshore currents, according to a beach hazard warning issued by the National Weather Service in Wilmington, N.C.

The beach hazard alert is in effect from Thursday morning through the evening for coastal Horry, Georgetown, New Hanover, N.C., and Pender, N.C. counties.

Weather authorities said a strong north to south longshore current is expected Thursday at all area beaches expect for Brunswick County, N.C.

Longshore currents can push swimmers far from the swimming spot they started from and can make it difficult for them to keep their footing.

Weather authorities advise swimmers use caution in or near the water and be aware of the potentially dangerous conditions.

This story was originally published June 8, 2017 at 7:34 AM with the headline "Watch out for longshore currents if you’re swimming at Grand Strand beaches today."