Dangerous surf generated by Tropical Storm Bertha has led to more than a dozen water rescues at Clearwater Beach over the past two days, prompting officials to urge beachgoers to stay out of the water.
Why it matters: Strong rip currents remain one of the deadliest beach hazards and are expected to continue through Thursday.
The latest:
- Clearwater Beach lifeguards rescued more than a dozen swimmers over the past 48 hours.
- Manatee County reported no water rescues but performed about 50 preventive interventions to keep swimmers away from hazardous conditions.
- Wind gusts around 20 mph and rough surf continue to create dangerous swimming conditions.
Beach safety:
- Avoid entering the water when red flags are flying.
- Swim near a staffed lifeguard tower if you choose to enter the water.
- If caught in a rip current, stay calm, float and swim parallel to shore rather than directly against the current.
Bottom line: Tropical Storm Bertha continues to create hazardous surf along Gulf beaches, and officials urge visitors to stay out of the water until conditions improve.
