DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Large crowds gathered Thursday up and down Volusia County’s coast, and dozens had to be rescued because of rip currents.
Volusia Beach Safety says 180 people were rescued from the waves.
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It’s the second day of hazardous conditions and rescues. On Wednesday, a 43-year-old man drowned in the area of 500 N. Atlantic Ave., north of the bandshell, in an unguarded area. Officials said the man — who was visiting from West Virginia with his family — got caught in a rip current.
A surfer in the area assisted lifeguards and pulled the man to shore.
The victim was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
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Volusia County Beach Safety officials said 107 beachgoers were rescued by lifeguards Wednesday.
“It looks like we will be flying the red flag over the next few days going into this holiday weekend,” Volusia County Beach Safety Chief Tammy Malphurs said. “Make sure when you come to the beach, make sure you’re swimming in front of those staffed lifeguard towers. Do not go in the water if there’s not a tower.”
Malphurs said beachgoers should also pay attention to high tides.
“We’re definitely keeping an eye on it. Probably not going to go out too deep just to be safe,” a beachgoer from Ocala said.
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