Gulf Closures on Pensacola Beach
Significant quantities of emulsified oil are in the near shore waters and coming ashore along much of the Gulf front on Pensacola Beach. This has necessitated that the Escambia County Health Department place signage along the Gulf beaches advising beach patrons to avoid contact with the water (no wading, swimming or entering), oil or oily materials, or dead or dying wildlife.
As of 12:20 p.m., on this date, the Gulf waters, from the Park West (Pickens Gate) recreation area through Walkover 23 (just west of Portofino) are closed to all swimming and wading until further notice. Double Red flags have been posted. At the present time, swimming and wading is still allowed in the Gulf east of Walkover 23.
The sound side is still safe for swimming and the Gulf front beaches, above the mean high water line (above the contaminated areas), are still open for sunbathing and other typical beach activities.
For Additional Information contact:
W. A. “Buck” Lee, Executive Director, SRIA at 932-2257 or
Bob West, Director of Public Safety, SRIA at 554-4296