Waters in Ocean City closed to swimmers. Experienced surfboarders are still allowed in the water, and the beach is still open at this time.
With Hurricane Earl getting closer and lots people expected for Labor Day weekend.
“What we will do is encourage people to continue on with their vacation, but watch their local television station, to watch the track of the storm and wait until the storm and the event is over before you travel,” said Mayor Rick Meehan.
“Reminds me of Hawaii or California. I’m not used to seeing the waves this high in Ocean City,” said one beachgoer.
“Common sense is so important and we urge everybody to not go into the surf when the lifeguards are off duty,” Meehan said.
Ocean City still is expected to get stormy weather early Friday, with rough surf and winds from 30 to 40 miles per hour.
Travelers should avoid driving to Ocean City between 3 a.m. and 3 p.m. Friday.
From beach erosion to a loss of business, the storm could have a profound effect on Maryland’s shore.
“I’m very worried about it. I’m going to cut my vacation short,” said one man.
“Friday’s going to be lousy. We’ve been preaching preparedness and public education way before this storm. Now’s the time to test what we’ve taught you. The e-word is not even on the radar screen right now, but we’re prepared if we have to do anything additional,” said Joe Theobald, Emergency Management Director.
An emergency center in Ocean City is expected to open around 3 a.m. Friday.
