Rip currents, rough surf expected at the beaches through the weekend

JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. — The Action News Jax First Alert weather team said if any area is going to see impacts from Isaias, it’s going to be at the beaches. A dangerous rip current risk at area beaches is expected with rough seas and surf.

Even though yellow flags were flying at Jacksonville Beach Friday, a man had to be rescued from the ocean. Jax Beach Ocean Rescue said the man struggled to swim back to shore. Lifeguards pulled him in. He was taken to the hospital and is expected to be okay.

Jax Beach Ocean Rescue is getting ready for a potentially busy weekend. Lt. Max Ervanian with ocean rescue said he expects red flags to be flying at the beaches this weekend, which indicate dangerous conditions. “No matter your expertise level, if it’s red flag, if it’s dangerous ocean conditions, stay out of the water,” Ervanian said.

He said lifeguards will be staffed as normal, as long as weather permits. If you do go in the water, Ervanian said to be in front of a lifeguard or buddy. He said if you see someone in distress, do not try to rescue them. Ervanian said leave it to the lifeguards because that’s what they are trained to do.

Cox Media Group