Dangerous coastal conditions persist on Tybee Island after weekend rain

TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. (WTOC) - Dangerous coastal conditions are plaguing Tybee Island following this weekend’s heavy rain and severe weather across the Southeast, prompting officials to urge beachgoers to stay out of the water.

A high surf warning remains in effect as lifeguards monitor hazardous conditions including high surf, dangerous rip currents, elevated tides and large debris washing ashore. Red flags are flying on the beach, signaling unsafe water conditions.

The dangerous conditions proved real on Saturday when Tybee Island Fire Rescue had to rescue two swimmers who were caught in a suspected rip current. Both swimmers are okay following the rescue.

SEE: Tybee Island rescue crews save two swimmers from rip current

What washed ashore on Tybee Island?

Adding to safety concerns, a large channel marker weighing nearly 14,000 pounds has washed ashore on Tybee Island. Jennifer Bishop with Tybee Island Ocean Rescue said the marker came from Port Royal, South Carolina.

“The marker is extremely heavy and could shift or roll without warning, posing a serious risk of injury,” Bishop said. Officials are urging beachgoers to keep a safe distance from the marker and not to touch or climb on it.

It’s also worth noting that some back roads on Tybee are experiencing minor flooding due to elevated tides, creating additional travel concerns for visitors and residents.

Lifeguards strongly advise anyone heading to Tybee Island to stay out of the water and enjoy the beach safely from the sand while the dangerous conditions persist.