JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. – Jacksonville Beach felt the effects of Hurricane Milton Wednesday night and early Thursday morning as the powerful storm thrashed its way across Florida.
Our News4JAX crews clocked wind gusts around 30 mph and higher on the beach.
We also witnessed Jacksonville Beach police patrolling the area, especially along the Jacksonville Beach Pier, which was closed ahead of the hurricane.
At one point, officials escorted a group of people away from the closed pier early Thursday morning after they appeared to have jumped over the closed gate to gain access.
They were led away from the beach by police.
“Jacksonville Beach Ocean Rescue currently has a red flag advisory due to strong rip currents and rough surf,” the City of Jacksonville Beach Police Department posted on Facebook. “Anyone entering the ocean during these conditions is taking an extreme risk with their safety. Please stay out of the water until conditions improve. Lifeguards are not on duty.”
People are asked to stay away from the beach and pier until it is safe.
