Horseneck Beach closed due to storm rip currents from Hurricane Chris

Horseneck Beach State Reservation in Westport was closed Wednesday due to the potential of a strong rip current risk from Hurricane Chris, according to officials.

“With the potential of dangerous rip currents likely to occur at Horseneck Beach State Reservation, the Department of Conservation and Recreation is strongly encouraging all visitors to take extreme caution while visiting the beach area,” DCR Commissioner Leo Roy noted in a press release. “Additionally, the agency is closely monitoring all Department managed beaches along the coastline, and lifeguards and staff will alert visitors should conditions become dangerous.”

The DCR said it is taking measures to alert the public of the risk, adding that the organization is taking the following precautions:

• Placing Visual Management Boards at strategic locations at the reservation
• Informing all visitors of the risk as they enter the reservation
• Posting of beach flags to reflect current conditions
• Stationing additional managers and guards at the reservation

The DCR also noted that all other agency managed ocean beaches are also being monitored.

“The agency will re-evaluate tomorrow to determine if the reservation can re-open on Thursday,” according to the CDR.