The Sunshine State is currently one of the most popular destinations in the country as people from all around prepare for spring break.
Florida always attracts thousands of tourists during this season, and it seems that this year will be no exception. Even though some universities and colleges have canceled their spring break, the state is still a hot spot of vacations, which will lead to large crowds in the coming days. People are eager to enjoy the warm weather and aquatic activities that Florida provides.
Several concerns arose amongst the locals regarding the pandemic and how the surge of tourists would affect the COVID-19 cases in the state — and as well as each county. According to the Florida Health Department, there have been around 2,000 to 7,000 cases per day and this number can be expected to increase with the influx of visitors. Some parts of the state have loosened restrictions, while others have prepared for this event over the last couple of weeks.
Miami Beach placed rigid and strict restrictions for the spring break peak that extends from February 22nd to April 12th, where it outlines their zero tolerance approach for the guests. Any type of coolers, alcohol, or tables are prohibited in the beaches, and there will also be a limit on the capacity.
“We are aggressively using social media to specifically target those in key age demographics, if someone in one of those age demographics goes on travel sites today like expedia they will get clickbait that takes them to unmistakable messaging about our tolerance levels and rules,” said Dan Gelber, Miami Beach’s mayor.
These safety measures were specifically mentioned throughout the internet and their website to let the public know that their rules were to be taken seriously and would be in effect at all times.
Despite the efforts from the Miami Beach officials, there were large crowds at the beach and by ocean drive last weekend where matters quickly escalated. On Saturday night, police enforcement had to intervene on the streets to make sure that the people abided by the curfew and while some did others opted to resist. There were over a dozen arrests made during the weekend, prompting the city of Miami Beach to order a state of emergency that will last until Tuesday and will be implemented again from the upcoming Thursday through Sunday.
This state of emergency contains a revised curfew from 8 PM through 6 AM. That includes the suspension of restaurants and cafes. All of the causeways will be closed except the main one, and there will be police patrolling the area.
Countless other beaches along the coast are taking their own precautions to ensure a safe spring break but it will prove to be challenging. The major beaches such as clearwater, daytona, and the keys come across large group gatherings of people looking to let loose while COVID-19 is still a threat throughout the state.
The restrictions differ by area. Visitors will have to take a close look at the regulations that each city has set in place to safely enjoy their vacation this long, spring break week.
