20-Foot Waves Devour Photographer's Truck in Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido, renowned as the "Mexican Pipeline," experienced a colossal swell this week, with waves reportedly surging over 20 feet. The immense power of the ocean led to dramatic scenes, including the shocking loss of a local photographer's truck and essential gear to the relentless surf.

Key Takeaways

• Puerto Escondido witnessed waves exceeding 20 feet, living up to its "Mexican Pipeline" reputation.
• Photographer Matthew Smith lost his truck and camera equipment to the powerful surf.
• A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support Smith, a vital member of the local surf community.
• Professional surfers documented the intense conditions, highlighting both the spectacle and the risks involved.

A Devastating Loss Amidst Epic Conditions

The recent massive swell that battered Puerto Escondido's Zicatela beach brought with it waves of extraordinary size, estimated by locals to be well over 20 feet. This powerful South Pacific pulse, which had previously impacted Tahiti and Hawaii, delivered a formidable challenge to surfers.

Amidst the awe-inspiring, and at times perilous, surf sessions captured by professional surfers like Jamie O'Brien, a significant personal tragedy unfolded onshore. Longtime Puerto Escondido photographer and ocean safety worker, Matthew Smith, had his truck and all his camera gear swept away by the surging ocean. The vehicle was reportedly engulfed by the massive waves, becoming a stark symbol of the destructive power of the swell.

Community Rallies to Support Photographer

Smith, described as a crucial figure in the local surf scene for his years of service to photographers, filmmakers, athletes, and visitors, relied heavily on his truck for his livelihood. The loss has created substantial financial hardship for him.

In response to his plight, friends and fellow surfers have initiated a GoFundMe fundraiser to help Smith recover from this devastating blow. Jamie O'Brien expressed his dismay, stating, "For me, it was the foundation of my livelihood." He emphasized the emotional toll of witnessing Smith's equipment being lost and urged the community to contribute, noting that "even a dollar would go a long way."

The Mexican Pipeline Delivers Again

The surf itself provided some of the most intense action of the season. Footage from the event showcases massive barrels, challenging paddle battles, and surfers navigating chaotic conditions. While many committed surfers managed to ride the colossal waves or endure brutal wipeouts, the event also served as a potent reminder of the ocean's raw power and the inherent risks involved in surfing such formidable breaks.

With more Southern Hemisphere swell anticipated, Puerto Escondido may continue to be a focal point for big wave surfing, but the memory of the damage caused by this recent swell, particularly to Matthew Smith, remains a poignant aspect of the event.

Sources

• 20ft Puerto Escondido Surf Swallows Truck (Video), SURFER Magazine.