VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — Volusia County is changing its beach flag warning system starting Saturday, replacing orange flags that identify staffed lifeguard towers with flags that focus on current surf conditions.
The change is intended to reduce confusion for beachgoers, particularly tourists who may not understand the difference between the county’s staffing indicators and its water-quality warnings.
Under the new system, beachgoers will see either a red flag, indicating rough surf and dangerous rip currents, or a yellow flag, indicating a moderate risk of rough surf and rip currents.
Hailey Monahan with Volusia Beach Safety said the previous system sometimes prompted questions from visitors who were unsure what the different flags meant.
“Most of our visitors at our beaches are tourists. They’re not from here, they’re not really aware of the different surf conditions,” Monahan said.
Beachgoer Jeff Johnson said he believes the simpler system will benefit visitors.
“I think it’s a benefit to everyone because most people, they like simplicity,” Johnson said.
Johnson said he always checks the flags before entering the water.
The new system comes as Volusia County prepares for a weekend of dangerous surf conditions. Beach Safety expects red flags to fly throughout the weekend as surf builds and the risk of rip currents increases.
Monahan urged beachgoers to stay out of the water. Those who choose to enter should swim near a staffed lifeguard tower.
Surf was around 3 to 4 feet on Friday, but the National Weather Service forecast called for waves to build significantly, potentially reaching 17 feet at times over the weekend.
Beachgoers should also check Volusia County’s beach conditions and driving updates before heading out, as rough surf could lead to closures of beach driving approaches.
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