Gulf County, FL – Tropical Storm Bertha left behind significant beach erosion, debris, and hazardous surf conditions along Florida’s Gulf Coast, with dangerous rip currents continuing to threaten beachgoers Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Tallahassee, large swells and onshore winds generated by Tropical Storm Bertha pushed higher-than-normal water levels onto Gulf County beaches, particularly in Cape San Blas, causing widespread erosion and coastal damage.
Photos released by the weather service show damaged beach access points, scattered debris, eroded dunes, and washed-up lumber lining portions of the shoreline.
Forecasters said large surf and dangerous to life-threatening rip currents are expected to continue through Wednesday afternoon across many Florida Panhandle beaches. Officials are urging residents and visitors to stay out of the Gulf if red flags are flying and to avoid entering the water where hazardous conditions exist.
The National Weather Service noted that even experienced swimmers can be swept away by powerful rip currents generated by tropical systems. Beachgoers are encouraged to follow instructions from local officials and lifeguards and remain aware of changing surf conditions.
The coastal impacts come as Tropical Storm Bertha continues to generate hazardous marine conditions across portions of the northern Gulf Coast, even as the storm moves away from the immediate area.
Residents are encouraged to monitor forecasts from the National Weather Service and heed any beach advisories or warnings issued by local emergency management officials before heading to the coast.
