1600 Hours, Thursday, Aug. 20, 2009: The first hurricane of the 2009 Atlantic season is forecast to steer well clear of the eastern United States, but Hurricane Bill could whip up the surf along Delaware’s beaches this weekend, making for treacherous swimming and rough boating conditions.

The Sussex County Emergency Operations Center urges the public to use caution if visiting area beaches this weekend, which could feel some of the effects of the tropical system well beyond its outer rain bands.

Forecasters are predicting waves of at least 10 to 12 feet at Delaware’s beaches with rough surf and dangerous rip currents through Sunday.

“We don’t want to unnecessarily alarm the public and have people change their plans for what is otherwise expected to be a fairly nice weekend,” EOC Director Joseph L. Thomas said. “But people need to be aware that there could be very dangerous conditions on the water over the next couple of days, with high seas, rough surf and strong rip currents. The best advice is to be careful.”

Sussex County is encouraging those visiting the area to monitor conditions and to use caution if planning a visit to the beach. While swimming may not be advisable, those who do venture into the water should heed the direction of lifeguards on duty at local beach towns and state parks.

Stay tuned to local television and radio stations for updates. For more information, please contact the Sussex County EOC at (302) 855-7801.

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