Authorities have issued a high surf advisory along the California coastline, warning residents and visitors to stay away from the ocean as massive waves—some reaching up to 30 feet—threaten safety.
From Del Norte County to Los Angeles, the National Weather Service (NWS) has cautioned that these powerful swells will create life-threatening rip currents, hazardous sneaker waves, and increased beach erosion. The advisory is in effect through Saturday morning, urging beachgoers to remain vigilant and remember the crucial warning:
“Never turn your back on the ocean.”
Why This Matters
This alert covers hundreds of miles of coastline, affecting popular tourist spots and local communities. High surf events like this can catch people off guard, with waves powerful enough to pull swimmers and surfers out to sea, knock people off their feet, and even capsize small boats near the shore.
According to the NWS advisory, these dangerous conditions are not to be taken lightly, as they could pose a severe risk to anyone near the water.
Key Areas Affected
The high surf advisory impacts several regions across Northern and Southern California, including:
Northern California:
- San Francisco Peninsula & Big Sur Coast – Waves between 25 to 30 feet, with risks of sneaker waves surging beyond the usual surf zone.
- Humboldt & Mendocino Counties – Expected waves between 22 to 26 feet, making coastal activities extremely dangerous.
Southern California:
- Santa Catalina & Santa Barbara Islands, Ventura & Los Angeles Counties (Malibu Coast) – Breaking waves between 6 to 12 feet with rip currents and hazardous conditions.
- San Luis Obispo & Santa Barbara Counties – Waves of 10 to 15 feet, with isolated sets reaching 18 feet.
The advisory remains in effect until 11 a.m. Pacific Time on Saturday. Authorities warn that large waves could toss logs and debris inland, creating additional hazards for beachgoers.
What Experts Are Saying
Meteorologist Gwendolyn Fieweger explained to Newsweek that a powerful Pacific storm is driving these dangerous conditions.
“A strong storm system is moving eastward toward Washington and Oregon, bringing high winds and rough seas across Northern California. Waves up to 30 feet are possible, especially in far northern regions.”
She added that while the worst conditions will be north of the Bay Area, hazardous surf could persist along Southern California’s beaches through Saturday morning.
The combination of gusty winds and accumulated moisture in the Pacific has contributed to these extreme waves, making swimming, surfing, and even boating highly dangerous.
What You Need to Know Before Heading to the Beach
Authorities are urging residents to reconsider visiting the beach until conditions improve. The NWS and local lifeguard agencies recommend the following precautions:
✔️ Avoid entering the water – Rip currents and strong waves can pull even experienced swimmers out to sea.
✔️ Stay away from rock jetties and piers – Sneaker waves can unexpectedly wash over these areas, increasing the risk of injury.
✔️ Avoid harbor bars and unprotected marinas – Small boats are at high risk of capsizing.
✔️ Stay near lifeguard towers – If you must visit the beach, stay close to lifeguards and follow their instructions.
Beachcombing is also discouraged, as rogue waves could sweep unsuspecting visitors off their feet.
What’s Next?
The high surf is expected to gradually subside by Saturday afternoon, but rough waters and rip currents may continue into Sunday.
Residents and tourists should monitor updates from the NWS and local emergency agencies before heading to the coast. Safety officials emphasize that drowning accidents often happen when people underestimate the power of the ocean.
Until the advisory lifts, it’s best to admire the ocean from a safe distance rather than risk dangerous conditions.
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