...BEACH HAZARDS STATEMENT REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 8 PM EDT THIS EVENING...

* WHAT...The warm air temperatures in the 60s to low 70s may cause people to underestimate the dangers of the very cold water temperatures which are currently only in the mid to upper 40s.

* WHERE...Coastal Hancock and Coastal Washington Counties.

* WHEN...Until 8 PM EDT this evening.

* IMPACTS...The cold temperatures can quickly cause hypothermia to anyone immersed in the water. Anyone on boats or paddlecraft should use extreme caution to avoid this threat.

A Beach Hazards Statement is issued on days when a significant number of boats and paddlecraft are expected to be out on the water and when warm air temperatures may cause people to underestimate the danger of the cold water. Paddle smart from the start. Always wear your life jacket. Be aware of wind conditions, tides, and localized currents.