Wells Dusenbury, Sun Sentinel

Despite pleas from health and government officials asking people to practice social distancing in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, many are ignoring those requests.

On Monday, the beaches were still packed in Clearwater, Florida, with spring breakers electing to ignore the public health crisis. Spotlighted in pictures that have quickly gone viral, hundreds of people can be seen partying on the beach like it’s just another day. According to Tampa’s WFTS, Clearwater officials may not vote on whether to close down beaches until Thursday.

Earlier in the afternoon, President Trump advised Americans to avoid public gatherings of more than 10 people as an attempt to combat the spread of COVID-19.

In South Florida, Miami Beach and Fort Lauderdale announced on Sunday that they would be closing their beaches.

stop asking people to feel sorry for those who didn’t have enough energy to vote, but have plenty of energy for Lauderdale Spring Break 2020. pic.twitter.com/PEMBwyXquw

— Florida Chris (@chrislongview) March 15, 2020

Other cities — including Hollywood, Dania Beach and Hallandale Beach — have since joined in closing their beaches.

“We cannot become a petri dish for a very dangerous virus,” Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber said. “Spring break is over. The party is over.”

Miami Beach’s rules will stay in effect through at least March 19, while Fort Lauderdale’s beaches will remain closed through April 12.

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