Strong rip currents after Isaac; officials warn swimmers

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. (WSVN) -- Officials are asking the public to avoid South Florida beaches due to strong waves and rip currents from Tropical Storm Isaac.

Officials closed Miami Beach and South Beach to swimmers Monday. Ocean Rescue has been patrolling the beaches to keep swimmers out of the waters due to rip currents.

At John U. Lloyd Beach State Park in Hollywood, officials have closed down the beach and no swimming or fishing is allowed."The life guards are out patrolling the beaches. We will keep the lifeguard towers closed. The ocean is closed for bathing," said Lieutenant Gerry Falconer of Miami-Beach Ocean Rescue. "The unfortunate aspect for today is there will be no school, so I'm sure we will have people venturing out to the beach."

Dozens of surfers are enjoying the waves at Haulover Park. Surfers said it's the only safe place to come out and enjoy the surf. "It's way different over here because of the rocks, so it's a little bit less dangerous," said surfer Demian Perel.

However, officials advise swimmers to stay clear of beaches until local lifeguards and law enforcement officials determine the water is safe. They are asking the public to avoid going into the water and suggest staying indoors.

Crews will shut down Ocean Way in Deerfield Beach Tuesday to clean up the sand due to beach erosion.

(Copyright 2012 by Sunbeam Television Corp. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)