NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Fla. – So far, Memorial Day weekend at New Smyrna Beach has been calm, according to Volusia Beach Safety officials.
They said they haven’t had to make any rescues yet.
“That’s nice. There’s usually three to four on a weekend like this,” said New Smyrna Beach resident William Shrock.
Officials performed nearly 300 water rescues during this time last year, which is why lifeguards and beach patrol deputies are beefing up their presence this year.
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“The lifeguard has been on his whistle heavy. If they go out too far, he let them know,” Polk County Resident Gary Lubin said.
Shrock and his family are enjoying some fun in the sun along with thousands of others this weekend, however, visitors say the high heat can be unbearable.
Afternoon highs on Sunday climbed to 96 degrees, but when you factor in the relative humidity, heat index readings will be in the low 100s.
“When I got out here it felt like 100,” Lubin said.
Monday starts off sunny and mild, but heats up quickly. Expect highs in the mid-to-upper 90s with feels like temperatures in the low 100s.
The normal high this time of year is 90, News 6 meteorologist Samara Cokinos said.
Getting too hot can be dangerous, which why several beachgoers prepared by leaving early.
“Usually I’m done here by 1 p.m. I get here 9-10 a.m., leave a little earlier,” Shrock said.
Visitors said staying hydrated and bringing a tent helps with the heat.
“You know the tents. I’m not coming to the beach without it,” Lubin said.
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