BETHANY BEACH, Del.- The Town of Bethany Beach announced it would close its beaches and boardwalks to unauthorized traffic beginning Saturday at 5 p.m.

According to a press release, the town closed the boardwalk in response to a large number of people congregating and socializing without regard to "social distancing."

The town says it has also seen a summer-like influx of visitors in the area, significantly increasing the risk of contracting and spreading COVID-19.

The areas will remain closed until the order is rescinded