Swimmers were being kept close to lifeguard stands and, in some towns, only allowed in the water up to their knees, according to local reports.
In Lavallette, local resident Denise Wirth posted a video showing the erosion at the beachfront, a result of the “pounding” waves described in the National Weather Service’s surf zone forecast for Saturday.
“High surf and large swells will produce dangerous, pounding surf and rip currents at the beaches,” the report said.
The report went on to advise swimmers to stay out of the water due to the “life threatening” rips. The wave heights in the surf zone were about 4-5 feet.
Meanwhile, further out in the ocean, a small craft advisory remained in effect until 6 p.m. Saturday, prompted by east and northeast winds blowing 15-20 knots. Seas were running 4-6 feet.
The winds were forecast to ease by Sunday, forecast to be 5-10 out of the east. Seas will run 3-4 feet, calming to 2-3 feet by Sunday night.
