HomeMy Public PortalAboutCOTI_PR20160830_DblRedFlags.docxPRESS RELEASE: Contact: Ashley Fields, Fire Chief
For immediate release afields@cityoftybee.org
(912) 472-5061
Tybee Island Ocean Rescue Flying Double Red Flags – No Swimming!
Tybee Island, Ga. – (August 30, 2016) The National Weather Service in Charleston has issued a rip current statement which is likely to remain in effect until after the expected tropical
storm passes by and effects from the wind and storm seas have subsided. As a result, double red flags are being displayed on the Tybee Island Lifeguard stands, which means no swimmers
are allowed in the waters.
High winds are already affecting the coast from the unnamed storm, Tropical Depression 8, which is already to the north of Tybee. Tropical Depression 9 is expected to strength and pass
by the Savannah area on Friday. The after-effects will persist for a day or two following. The current rip current warning extends through Monday, although this may change.
These winds generate heavy wave action, which in turn creates strong rip currents as the water from those waves returns from the shore to the sea. The rip currents represent a danger
to swimmers who might be caught. To keep beachgoers safe, the lifeguards do not want any swimmers in the water while these conditions remain in effect.
About Tybee Island, GA.: The City of Tybee Island, Georgia is on the outermost barrier island off the Savannah area coast. With a wild bird sanctuary, over three miles of ocean beaches,
and salt marshes on the back river, outdoor recreation activities abound for visitors to the island. As a key defense point to the important Savannah port, Tybee’s Fort Screven, Tybee
Post Theater, Fort Pulaski, and the Tybee Island and Cockspur Lighthouses combine with the unique architectures of the island’s raised cottages to form a rich backdrop for history buffs.
Attracting a strong artistic community, there are several local supporting art galleries. Keeping the island interesting year round are several arts festivals, the Annual Pirate Fest,
the Beach Bum Parade, St Patrick’s Day celebrations, the Hot Rod Run, the Beach Bash, and the Christmas Parade, as well as fireworks displays on Independence and New Year’s Days off
the Walter W. Parker Pier and Pavilion. The Marine Science Center cooperates with Georgia’s DNR to protect threatened sea turtle species by searching for nests, protecting their eggs,
and making sure hatchlings make it to sea. For visitor information, stop by http://www.visittybee.com/, and to find more about the City of Tybee Island, visit our web site at http://www.cityoftybee.
org/.
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