WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, N.C. (WNCN) -- Emergency Management officials monitored the progress of Hurricane Imelda on Tuesday and weather impacts throughout New Hanover County and coastal communities, including Wrightsville Beach.

Authorities encouraged people to stay out of the ocean because of a high risk of life-threatening rip currents and dangerously high surf.

“DANGER - NO SWIMMING - $250 Fine” signs were posted along the beaches.

Still, surfers took advantage of the high waves, particularly around Johnny Mercer Pier, off 23 East Salisbury St.

“I’d say it’s pretty gnarly today," said surfer Jake Witowsky, a Wrightsville Beach native, who couldn’t wait to hang-10. “We don’t get these long periods with these waves this size that often. So it’s always nice going out here when it’s like th

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