Why is the Outer Banks ocean so cold?

Outer Banks water is cold because southwest winds push warm water up to the surface of the Atlantic Ocean and away from the shore. This flow of wind enables cold water that is below the warm water to move in. Is it safe to swim in the Outer Banks? It is safe to swim in the Outer Banks.



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Some areas of the Outer Banks have fixed lifeguard stands, while others only offer roving patrols. It is always safest to swim near a fixed lifeguard station - particularly if you have children. Lifeguards are generally on duty between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekend.

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The warmest water temperature is in August with an average around 81.7°F / 27.6°C. The coldest month is February with an average water temperature of 53.2°F / 11.8°C.

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The moon's gravitational pull, the Earth's rotation, and temperature changes between the equator and the poles keeps these waters constantly churning. The area off the Outer Banks is especially turbulent because of how the Gulf Stream collides with colder waters flowing down from the Arctic.

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The weather on the Outer Banks in October is ideal: mild during the day, with cool, comfortable nights. The average high temperature in October is 72°, and the average low is 58°. The ocean temperature is 70° on average, which is still warm enough for swimming or surfing.

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Rip Currents on the Outer Banks Seaward currents, also called rip currents or rip tides, are created by breaks in the sand bar off shore and are very dangerous. Rip currents are channels of water flowing away from the shore and will pull a swimmer out from shore.

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