SAN DIEGO (KGTV)- Visitors and locals are expected to flock to San Diego beaches this Fourth of July weekend.
While some beaches will close in California for the holiday weekend, San Diego County officials will keep local beaches open.
San Diego County Supervisor Nathan Fletcher said no COVID-19 community outbreaks had been linked to beaches, and without the data, it would not make sense to close them off.
According to Dr. Wilma Wooten, the county’s public health officer, leaders of San Diego’s coastal communities said they believe they can manage the enforcement of social distancing and facial coverings this weekend.
Longtime Solana Beach residents Richard and Lori Brenckman are frustrated by the idea of crowds flocking to the beaches during a pandemic.
“The general public has shown that it’s not trustworthy to social distance,” said Lori Brenckman. “They want to gather, and most people have proven that they won’t follow the rules.”
Beachgoers are required to maintain social distancing and wear a facial covering when they come within six feet of someone not from the same household. Mixing with other groups is prohibited.
Lifeguards across the county are preparing for the busy weekend.
“It is the big holiday of the summer, so we expect giant crowds,” said Lifeguard Lt. Rick Romero with San Diego Fire-Rescue. “This a tourist destination; everyone wants to come to San Diego. It’s a great place to hang out.”
Romero said extra lifeguards would be in place both Friday and Saturday. “We’re just asking people for some compliance, have some common sense, be nice to each other,” he said.
Elevated surf and the possibility of dangerous rip currents are expected over the weekend.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom also ordered parking facilities at all state beaches in Southern California, and the Bay area to close this weekend.
