ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. – With all eyes on weather, local lifeguards are asking that beachgoers be extra careful Sunday and Monday.
Sunday morning St. Johns County beaches put out red flags warning of hazardous conditions. For most of the day Jacksonville Beach lifeguards issued yellow flags. But the threat of rip currents and possible storms didn't stop some from enjoying a day at the beach.
"Just moving down here from South Carolina, it's just so nice to be 10 minutes from the beach," said Tiffany Kermode. "It's a dream come true, so I'm happy to be down here, definitely."
"The wind is probably like 20 to 30 knots. The waves are real choppy, but they're up to about 6 feet tall. So yeah, pretty big," said Lee Kermode.
With some possible rough weather in our forecast, Jacksonville Beach lifeguards are being proactive. A total of 18 towers and a flag was positioned every few blocks Sunday starting from Seagate to 16th Street South. They ask that swimmers be aware of the flags and what they mean. Plus, don't be afraid to ask questions.
"Go up to a lifeguard, ask them where it's safe to swim. Ask them where the rip currents are, so you know where to avoid," said Capt. Jelisse Marrero, with Volunteer Lifesaving Corps. "Also, when you're with your children keep them with you, play in the water with them. If you're going to take water or food breaks, take them with you to your towel so everyone is together and safe."
As we head into Monday, lifeguards said they'll likely issue red flag warnings.
"You can be safe out here as long as you don't go too far out," Kermode said. "Pay attention to the flags and lifeguards."