PHUKET, Thailand — Tourists continued swimming at Kata Beach despite high waves, strong winds and red flags placed along the shoreline by lifeguards on Sunday, September 13. The beach remained busy from the morning, with visitors heading into the water despite intermittent rain and rough sea conditions in Phuket.
Lifeguards had raised red flags along the beach to warn swimmers that entering the water in designated red-flag areas could be dangerous because of the strong waves and currents.
Despite the warnings, some tourists continued entering the sea, prompting lifeguards to repeatedly approach them and advise them to leave the water. Officials also kept a close watch on swimmers throughout the day as the weather and sea conditions remained unsettled.
The red flags are intended to clearly indicate areas where swimming is considered unsafe, particularly when waves are high and currents are strong. Lifeguards continued monitoring the shoreline and reminding visitors to follow the warnings to reduce the risk of drowning and other accidents.
