MIAMI BEACH, Fla. – Holiday tourists are crowding South Florida’s beaches and other popular spots despite the rise in coronavirus cases.
It comes as a more contagious strain of the virus was just found in Florida; a man in Martin County who health officials said has no recent travel history.
Local 10 viewers have contacting the station about overcrowded club scenes, like a New Year’s Eve party at the Manor Nightclub in Wilton Manors.
Hip hop artist Tyga rang in the new year at a club in Miami Beach, along with hundreds packed shoulder to shoulder.
Thursday the State of Florida set a grim single-day record for new cases of COVID-19, with more than 17,000.
Despite the rising case numbers, many still prefer the lack of rules.
Tourists in Miami Beach told Local 10 News’ Amy Viteri that they came to South Florida for the warm weather and are doing their best to stay safe.
“As long as you wear your mask you can kind of decide how much risk you’re willing to take,” said tourist Sarah Southwood.