Massive waves, coastal flooding, and dangerous rip currents are impacting the California coastline this week, prompting authorities to advise caution after two recent deaths. The turbulent conditions follow the loss of a five-year-old girl and a woman, with another woman critically injured.
Recent Incidents
On Tuesday, a five-year-old girl was swept out to sea from Treasure Island Beach in Orange County while walking with her mother and brother. Bystanders rescued the mother and son, but the girl was not found until her body was recovered on Thursday. In Santa Cruz, two women were pulled out to sea by the tide, resulting in one death and the other in critical condition.
San Francisco Records Highest Summer Tide
In San Francisco, seawater flooded the Embarcadero on Saturday night. The city experienced its highest summer water level on record, according to the San Francisco Bay Area office of the National Weather Service (NWS).
Forecast and Warnings
The treacherous conditions are expected to persist with continuing king tides—the highest tides of the year. Southern California beaches face dangerous rip currents, breaking waves, and high tides through at least late Wednesday. The NWS warns of elevated drowning risk, as conditions can pull people into the water, wash them off beaches and rocks, and capsize small boats.
“Remain out of the water due to hazardous swimming conditions, or stay near occupied lifeguard towers. Rock jetties can be deadly in such conditions, stay off the rocks,” the NWS Los Angeles office stated on Sunday evening. Minor flooding is also possible.
In San Francisco, NWS officials warn of increased flooding risk for roads, lots, and parks, as well as sneaker waves, large breaking waves, and strong rip currents through Thursday morning. Residents are advised to stay out of the water and expect longer travel times.
Local Preparations
In Newport Beach, Orange County, city officials warned that high tides could cause flooding in low-lying harborfront neighborhoods. Last week, the city manager’s office urged residents to take precautions, including installing seawall plugs and placing sandbags in vulnerable areas.
Surfing Challenges
Despite the dangers, surfers rode massive waves at the Wedge in Newport Beach, with swells reaching 20 feet. However, conditions have been perilous, with several surfers reporting near-death experiences.
