Business slows down at beaches as wind advisory issued in South Florida

People urged to stay out of water on Thursday

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. ā€“ The National Weather Service issued a wind advisory for South Florida until 8 p.m. Thursday.

Lifeguards put up red flags at Fort Lauderdale Beach because of the heavy wind, and the advisory means slow business at the beach.

Al fresco cafes and restaurants were mostly empty Thursday morning, and foot traffic along A1A was extremely light as people fought the wind gusts.

The wind was gusting to more than 35 mph, so strong that it picked up particles of sand and blew them into the faces of those braving the blustery conditions.

One kite surfer didn't seem to mind the strong wind and the big surf. He was shredding the water just off the coast, covering a lot of water in a very short time.

The advisory urges people to secure smaller outdoor items, like trash cans and lawn furniture. High-profile vehicles should be driven carefully, especially on bridges or overpasses where they are exposed to the wind.

People are also urged to be cautious of palm fronds or weakened branches that could come down, and they are especially urged to stay out of the water.

"This is unusual today," beach vendor Italo Jiusti said. "I've never seen the waves like today."