Parts of Clearwater Beach Closed to Swimmers

Red flags signifying a high hazard are flying at all lifeguard towers along Clearwater Beach and officials are advising residents not to go swimming.

A double red flag is flying between Lifeguard Tower 3 and Pier 60 because of the strong current pushing toward the pier. The area will remain closed to swimmers throughout Thursday.

Surf conditions will worsen as the day progresses, Patrick Brafford, water safety supervisor for the City, said in a release. Winds are expected to shift from southeast to southwest as Andrea moves north in the Gulf of Mexico.

There is a high risk of rip tides, especially later in the day as the tide and wind direction changes, officials said. High tide is at 10:55 a.m.

Sign up for the free Clearwater Patch email newsletter to stay connected to your community.