Daytona Beach, FL — Officials are urging beachgoers to stay out of the water as dangerous rip currents and high surf continue to threaten swimmers along Volusia County’s shoreline this week.
Tragedy in the Water
On Saturday, a 51-year-old man visiting from out of state drowned after being swept away by a powerful rip current. The death has sparked renewed warnings from Volusia County Beach Safety, which reported that since last weekend, lifeguards have rescued nearly 300 swimmers from hazardous waters.
“This is not the time to go out and play in the ocean,” said Tamra Malphurs, Division Director for Volusia County Beach Safety Ocean Rescue. “We’re urging everyone to stay out of the water until conditions improve.”
High Rip Current Risk
The National Weather Service has issued a high rip current risk through Wednesday night, along with a high surf advisory until Thursday morning. Forecasters predict waves reaching up to nine feet, combined with strong winds, making swimming even more dangerous.
“These red flags will remain up until at least midweek,” Malphurs explained to ClickOrlando. “They’re a clear warning that the surf is dangerous, and the safest choice is to stay on shore.”
Visitors React to Rough Seas
Despite the warnings, crowds still gathered at Daytona Beach on Monday, some to witness the intense surf firsthand.
- “The ocean is a little angry this morning, but it’s still beautiful,” said beachgoer Wayne Isaacson.
- Visitor Jack Koppelman added, “It’s just a part of nature and it’s nature at its best. Or maybe at its worst. It sort of depends.”
- Others said the tragedy influenced their caution. “Undertones are rough,” said Mike McCauley. “I try not to go more than waist or stomach deep, just to be safe.”
How to Stay Safe
Officials urge beachgoers to follow basic rip current safety rules:
- Always swim near lifeguards and obey posted warning signs.
- Avoid swimming alone, especially in rough surf.
- If caught in a rip current, stay calm, float, and swim parallel to shore until free.
- Do not try to swim directly against the current, as this can quickly cause exhaustion.
- Keep a close eye on children and inexperienced swimmers at all times.
“Following these steps can prevent tragedies and save lives,” said Malphurs.
Safety First
With conditions expected to remain dangerous through the week, officials emphasize the importance of heeding posted warnings and avoiding unnecessary risks.
“Every year we see preventable tragedies when people ignore rip current alerts,” Malphurs said. “We want everyone to go home safe.”
Do you follow rip current safety rules at the beach? What precautions do you take to stay safe? Share your tips in the comments below.
