Hurricane Erin brings high waves to Wrightsville Beach

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, NC (WWAY) — Several local beach towns, including Wrightsville Beach, have issued no swimming advisories due to increased rip current risks from Hurricane Erin.

With wave heights around six to eight feet, the no swimming advisory didn’t stop some people from getting into the water.

Noah Zakarian has been a white water kayaker for more than a decade, and said his boat is designed for wave surfing.

“I saw the surf report that there was a spike for this week Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and so when I saw that I was like dude I’m dedicating a whole week to just being out here doing something that I love and that I’m very passionate about,” Zakarian said.

Zakarian is an Uber driver and sets his own hours.

“I’m not afraid when I’m out there,” he added. “I’m actually at peace. It’s a way of meditating for me just out there enjoying what God created.”

The no swimming advisory in Wrightsville Beach remains in effect through Friday.

Officials are monitoring conditions and hope swimming can safely resume this weekend.