The red "No Swimming" flags that dotted the region in recent days were mostly gone Sunday, as beaches were again packed with thousands lured by sunny skies and temperatures in the mid-80s.
Many towns had kept beachgoers out of the water during the past 10 days, citing rough surf conditions and rip currents spawned by Earl and Hurricane Danielle. And those that granted access only allowed people to enter the water up to their ankles or knees.
Despite the improved conditions, swimmers were being urged Sunday to stay in areas where lifeguards are stationed and to not swim alone - even if waters don't appear risky.
