CLEARWATER, Fla. — Gusty winds and choppy water Friday afternoon have prompted lifeguards on Clearwater Beach to fly red flags advising swimmers to use extreme caution.
Red flags are a sign to be weary of strong and frequent rip currents. It's recommended that swimmers stay out of the water when red flags are out.
A spokesperson for the Clearwater Police Department also shared that beachgoers should always remember to swim near a lifeguard.
Wind speeds at Clearwater Beach rose to around 20 mph sustained.
The forecast for the rest of the day features scattered afternoon thunderstorms, — some will roll through the Clearwater area. And it's always a good idea to head inside if thunder is heard.
As the week wraps up into the weekend expect breezy conditions at the beach with increasing seas 2-3 feet with a moderate chop.
10 Tampa Bay Meteorologist Mike Prangley contributed to this report.
