Dangerous surf conditions and the risk of coastal flooding are expected to persist along California's beaches through Wednesday, according to weather officials. While not anticipated to reach the extreme heights of last week's historic swells, which tragically resulted in two fatalities, the surf remains a significant concern.
San Francisco recorded its highest-ever summer ocean water level late Saturday, reaching 1.83 feet above normal high tide. This level, the highest recorded outside of the typical winter storm season from November to March, marks a significant anomaly, with water level records dating back to 1898.
A coastal flood advisory remains in effect through Wednesday morning, with the highest tides predicted for the evening hours. For the past week, beaches facing south or southwest have experienced the greatest threat from dangerous rip currents and sneaker waves. Newport Beach has issued warnings of king tides continuing through Tuesday and has been distributing sandbags to residents to mitigate potential flooding.
City officials in Newport Beach have urged residents to avoid parking in low-lying areas and to drive slowly through flooded streets to prevent worsening conditions with wakes. Last week's powerful swells generated waves up to 20 feet at the renowned surf break known as the Wedge.
The recent severe surf has led to tragic incidents. Last Wednesday, rescuers attempted to save two women swept out to sea from a Santa Cruz beach; one woman died, and the other remains in critical condition. Additionally, the body of 5-year-old Amada Mia Brown, who vanished in high surf in Laguna Beach, was recovered on Thursday.
Authorities are advising beachgoers to exercise extreme caution, particularly by staying off rocks and jetties during high surf and maintaining vigilance over the ocean. In the event of being caught in a rip current, officials recommend staying calm and swimming parallel to the shoreline until clear of the current's pull, or treading water and signaling for assistance if necessary.
