Thousands of people rushed to the beach in Jacksonville, Florida after the city’s mayor ordered a partial reopening of public spaces that were closed due to the coronavirus outbreak.
Thousands filled the sand on Friday evening following the order, with few showing signs of following guidance on social distancing.
Mayor Lenny Curry ordered the reopening in the mornings and evenings in what he said was the “beginning of the pathway back to normal life.”
“Please respect and follow these limitations. Stay within the guidelines for your safety as well as for the safety of your neighbors,” he said.
The beaches will be open from 6am to 11am and from 5pm to 8pm for “exercise only”, the city’s website said. Beachgoers will be allowed to swim and run, but will be banned from sunbathing, gathering in large groups and setting up chairs.
