Tropical Storm Andrea prompts beach rescues along Alabama coast

GULF SHORES, Ala. (AP) — Gulf Coast and Orange Beach authorities say Tropical Storm Andrea has forced them to rescue more than a dozen swimmers. Gulf Shores City Spokesman Grant Brown tells AL.com 10 people had to be rescued at the city's beaches Wednesday afternoon as the storm gained strength. Most didn't require hospitalization, but a 17-year-old boy was taken to the University of South Alabama Children's and Women's Hospital in Mobile. Brown says he regained consciousness after CPR was administered. Orange Beach Safety Director Melvin Shepard says three people were rescued as the storm gained strength. He said rip currents in the sandbar to the beach had created rough currents. Authorities say red flags are likely to fly at the beaches until the storm system leaves the area