PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. – If you’re planning to visit Panama City Beach for Memorial Day weekend, local officials urge you to stay aware of beach conditions and prioritize safety.
The area’s first drowning of 2025 occurred Saturday, May 17, when a 61-year-old man died after being pulled from the Gulf near the Tropic Winds condominiums. According to local authorities, surf conditions were hazardous at the time, with single red flags posted. Bystanders attempted CPR after bringing him to shore, but the man was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.
With heavy crowds expected in Bay County this weekend, public safety agencies are preparing for a significant increase in beachgoers. Staffing challenges continue, particularly in lifeguard coverage. The city’s Beach Safety Division currently deploys one roving lifeguard per three miles of shoreline—less than the recommended coverage of one per mile.
You are encouraged to follow these beach safety practices:
- Observe and respect the beach flag warning system.
- Swim near designated lifeguard towers where possible.
- Sign up for local alert systems to receive real-time beach updates.
- Avoid attempting rescues on your own—call 911 in an emergency.
Officials anticipate a busy weekend and are reminding visitors to be mindful of conditions while enjoying the beach.
