In a tragic turn of events, three individuals lost their lives on June 25 in rip currents off the coast of Panama City Beach in the Gulf of Mexico, NBC News reported.
With these latest fatalities, the city has now recorded a staggering seven deaths this year, making it the leading location for surf zone fatalities in the United States, based on the list provided by National Weather Service.
The Panama City Beach Police Department issued a statement revealing that the three victims met their untimely demise in separate incidents near different resorts. The individuals were identified as Kimberly Ann Mckelvy Moore, 39, of Lithonia, Georgia; Morytt James Burden, 63, of Lithia Springs, Georgia; and Donald Wixon, 68, from Canton, Michigan.
Tragically, despite rescue efforts, all three victims were unable to be saved. Moore was rescued by lifeguards around noon and was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after. Burden, on the other hand, succumbed to the treacherous conditions shortly after being rescued at 1 p.m. Wixon's life was tragically claimed after being saved at 4:23 p.m.
The National Weather Service has classified all seven deaths as rip current-related incidents. Rip currents are powerful currents that can swiftly carry unsuspecting swimmers away from the safety of the shore. Authorities have emphasized the importance of beachgoers being aware of the dangers posed by these currents.
The Panama City Beach Police Department described the conditions on June 25 as severe, warranting the display of "double red flags" to signify extreme danger. Despite these warnings, individuals ventured into the water, leading to tragic outcomes.
The incident further highlights the issue of surf zone fatalities in Florida, which now accounts for 27 deaths in 2023, the highest in the United States, according to the National Weather Service. Puerto Rico follows closely behind with 13 fatalities.
Rip currents remain the most significant hazard for beachgoers in the United States, as stated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The United States Lifesaving Association estimated that rip currents are responsible for over 100 deaths annually, with 80% of lifeguard rescues attributed to these treacherous currents.
Experts advise individuals caught in a rip current not to swim against it but rather to swim parallel or at an angle toward the shore. Additionally, calling for help or floating and treading water until the current weakens and moves toward the shore may be viable options.
Daryl Paul, the beach safety director for Panama City Beach Fire Rescue, emphasized the importance of swimming near lifeguards for maximum safety.
"The safest place to be when you come to the beach is near a lifeguard. And I will always pump that out. Swim near a lifeguard," Paul advised
The tragic loss of lives serves as a somber reminder of the importance of adhering to safety protocols and respecting the power of the ocean. Beachgoers are urged to exercise caution and vigilance, especially during periods of severe weather and strong currents, to prevent further tragedies in the future
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