VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — Volusia County Beach Safety officials say they’re prepared for the crowds expected to flood the area this weekend.
>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<
Bike Week in Daytona Beach officially began Friday. Billed as the world’s largest motorcycle event, it’s expected to draw close to 100,000 people to the city.
“This is my first time walking down Main Street while Bike Week is here, so I’m really excited,” visitor Connie Moloney said. “I don’t have a bike. It’s just really cool looking at all the bikes.”
READ: Airport officials prepare for record number of passengers during Spring Break
Just down the road, at the Ocean Center, hundreds more will be competing in the annual USA Gymnastics Winter Classic Invitational Tournament taking place until March 6. Another 2,000 people are expected to attend.
READ: All lanes on I-95 reopen more than 24 hours after series of deadly crashes
Volusia County’s beaches are also expected to draw crowds over what should be a sunny and warm weekend.
“We have a beautiful beach weekend coming up,” Volusia County Beach Safety Deputy Chief Tammy Malphurs said. “We do have those morning high tides, so we may be delayed in opening to driving in the morning.
Malphurs says they’ll be flying red flags over the weekend to warn swimmers about potentially dangerous rip currents. Lifeguard towers will also be fully staffed.
This browser does not support the video element.
Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.