WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — Authorities say the rough ocean churned up by the outer bands of Hurricane Irene have caused at least eight injuries and a near drowning in South Florida.

Palm Beach County officials say eight people were out on a jetty off Boynton Beach Inlet when a wave knocked them over. They say one person was taken to a hospital. Seven others were treated at the scene.

Up the coast in Jupiter, a man swimming in the ocean and couldn't be found right away. However, officials say he later was able to get ashore.

The National Hurricane Center reports that the rough seas are from strong northerly winds on the west side of the hurricane.

Meteorologists recorded a 53 mph gust in West Palm Beach and officials are warning people to stay away from the ocean.

(Copyright 2011, The Associated Press)

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