Clearwater Beach access closed Friday morning after rescues, debris

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Clearwater city officials said in a news alert early Friday morning that “access to Clearwater Beach will remain suspended until further notice,” including to residents who evacuated.

The alert, sent out just after 3 a.m., said that roads, businesses and homes “were inundated with several feet of water. Even after the water levels recede, much debris remains on the roads and it is unsafe to travel to the area. The debris must be removed before the beach can be reopened safely.”

The alert also noted that “multiple high-water rescues from homes on the beach and mainland were conducted late Thursday and early