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Dangerous surf conditions prompt red flag warnings at Virginia Beach Oceanfront

Posted at 11:37 AM, Aug 29, 2016
and last updated 2016-08-29 16:28:21-04

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Dangerous surf conditions thanks to tropical systems in the Atlantic Ocean have prompted lifeguards at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront to post red flag warnings.

Tom Gill, Chief of the Virginia Beach Lifesaving Service, says lifeguards are restricting folks to knee-deep water at the Oceanfront Monday, August 29 as a result of the dangerous surf.

"We are already feeling the impacts. We are absolutely going to be impacted by everything going on out in the Atlantic," Gill told News 3's Todd Corillo Monday. "Northeast Winds. Higher than normal surf. Red flags are up and we need people to be very careful when they are coming down to the beach this week."

Lifeguards at the Oceanfront are assessing conditions throughout the day and are prepared to change the restrictions as necessary.

"It may get to the point over the next two days, depending on how this tropical storm comes around, that we do have to close the water for a time being," Gill commented.

Virginia Beach Lifesaving Service staff are encouraging folks to always swim near a lifeguard and check-in with them before getting into the water.