[Trending News] Wind in doubt, stay out: severe weather affects beachgoers

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) – Double red flags kept swimmers out of the water at Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Wednesday.

The flags stood parallel in the wind, closing the water to the public due to life-threatening rip currents and extreme surf.

Beach Safety Chief Joethan Phillips said staying out the water is not a suggestion.

“Right now we have waves at 5-7 feet so they’re very big waves,” he said. “We want everybody to be on the sand. The reason is because there’s dangerous surf and rip currents. And it’s really just not safe to be out there.”

“If you’re in the water, the biggest consequence is death,” said Phillips. “That’s what could happen today if you’re out there and you’re not an experienced swimmer and we really recommend you not going out there and like I said it is illegal.”

Phillips said disregarding the double red flags could result in a $500 or arrest.

A few beachgoers decided to brave the strong winds, but make a few changes like facing their chairs in the direction of the wind or wearing sunglasses to avoid getting sand in their eyes.

“I’m just glad I had these on cause it protects against the sand,” said Landon.

“It’s blowing so I’m trying to get it away from the direction facing the opposite direction from where the sand’s blowing,” said Delanie.

Some said the weather isn’t what they expected, but they’re still happy to be at the beach.

“Very windy, I will say that,” said Delanie. “Probably a little chilly, not too cold, not too hot, but perfect.”

“The sand was hitting us a lot and we were getting exfoliated,” said a local.

“It’s fun walking with these guys but it’s definitely pretty windy,” Landon said. “The sand hits you pretty hard.”

A visitor from Illinois said he will take the wind over cold weather.

“It was below zero when we left, so this is not bad at all, so yeah, we’re enjoying it,” said Chris.

Phillips shared a final reminder when going to the beach in this weather.

“They’re here for your safety and we also want you to look at what a rip current is and the flags before you get here,” he said.

For information on beach safety and to check the beach flag warning system click here.