VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — Volusia County has suspended beach driving and closed beach restrooms and showers, along with coastal and inlet parks ahead of Hurricane Helene.

The closures will take effect for the rest of the day and county officials will reopen the facilities on Friday once deemed safe.

Red flags are flying along the coast and Volusia County Beach Safety expects the warnings to continue over the next few days.

As the storm progresses, escalating marine hazards, including rip currents, higher-than-average tides, and large waves will pose a risk to beachgoers.

County officials urge residents and visitors to stay out of the ocean until conditions improve.

The Volusia County Citizens Information Center (CIC) will remain open until 6 p.m. Thursday for any questions. Residents can call the CIC at 866-345-0345.

For more county information, download the Volusia Emergency Management app or visit volusia.org.

Residents and visitors can use the Volusia Beaches app to check for open beach ramps and parks, and to view ocean and beach conditions.