Beachgoers in Puerto Escondido have been warned by state authorities to avoid entering the water at local beaches due to a strong groundswell phenomenon currently being recorded along the coast.
A groundswell, officials explained, poses a real threat for those swimming at sea, as it causes strong, constant waves.
Red flags indicating that swimming is forbidden for the time being have been placed on all Puerto’s beaches, with some of them being completely closed as a preventive measure.
In an official statement, the state government warned beachgoers “to avoid approaching the coastal areas in general given the possibility that the strong waves could drag people away.”
Authorities recommend that the public heed the warnings of the lifeguards and Civil Protection staff and beach signage, remove palapas, furniture and equipment from all beach areas, avoid walking on the beach, remove and safeguard small boats and avoid swimming.
The lifeguard corps, part of the state fire department, will remain on high alert for the duration of the groundswell warning, ready to help residents and visitors when needed. The corps’ priority, it was stressed, is the safety of all those who visit Oaxaca and its tourist destinations.
“It is important to stress to residents and visitors that they must follow the recommendations issued by safety agencies and local authorities, stay informed about weather conditions through official communication channels and avoid unnecessarily exposing themselves to the swell,” the document concluded.
With reports by El Universal
