Rough waves attract surfers to Jax Beach

The red flags waving above the lifeguard stations warn Jacksonville Beach goers about the potential danger in the water Wednesday.

Tropical Storm Arthur is increasing the risk of rip currents as it gets closer to land, but that did not deter surfers from trying to catch some waves.

Danny Kirkland, 21, said he and his friend drove five hours from Destin, Fla. for the surf.

“We had a bit of a flat spell on the Gulf Coast.  There’s been no waves and there are finally some waves here,” he said.

Kirkland has never surfed in the Atlantic, but said he isn’t worried about the rip currents.

“As long as you respect the sea, she’ll respect you back,” he said while tending to his board in the parking lot of the Pier.

One fisherman told WOKV that the approaching storm would not keep him from casting off, but he considered the water to be too dangerous to swim in.

He said big storms blowing through the area are just a part of living in Florida.

Jacksonville Beach Rescue doesn’t want to take any chances.  They plan on adding up to 50 lifeguards at Jax Beach by Friday.