Coastal communities across California and Hawaii are on alert as a high surf advisory has been issued for various shorelines. Large, powerful waves are expected to bring dangerous conditions, including strong rip currents and the potential for minor flooding and beach erosion. Residents and visitors are urged to exercise extreme caution near the water.
Key Takeaways
- High surf advisories are in effect for parts of California and Hawaii.
- Expect large breaking waves ranging from 6 to 14 feet.
- Dangerous rip currents pose a significant risk to swimmers and surfers.
- Authorities advise staying out of the water or remaining near lifeguard towers.
California Coastline Faces Powerful Swells
In California, the National Weather Service Los Angeles/Oxnard has issued a high surf advisory for the Malibu Coast and Los Angeles areas, effective until Saturday afternoon. Waves are predicted to reach 6 to 9 feet, subsiding to 4 to 7 feet. Similar conditions are expected for Ventura County beaches, with waves of 7 to 9 feet, decreasing to 5 to 7 feet. The NWS warns of an increased risk of ocean drowning due to powerful rip currents that can pull swimmers out to sea. Large waves can also cause injuries, wash people off beaches and rocks, and capsize small boats near the shore. Minor beach erosion and localized flooding in low-lying areas are also possible. Officials strongly advise against entering the water unless near an occupied lifeguard tower and to stay off rock jetties.
Hawaii’s East Shores Experience Large Waves
Hawaii has also seen advisories for its east-facing shores. Initially, a high surf advisory was in place for the east shores of all Hawaiian Islands, with waves expected to reach 10 to 14 feet due to strong trade winds and an easterly swell. Higher than predicted tide levels were also anticipated to cause significant wave run-up, beach erosion, and localized coastal flooding, with waves potentially reaching coastal roadways and properties. While advisories for some north-facing shores have been canceled, the large surf has persisted along east-facing shorelines. The National Weather Service in Honolulu has since canceled the high surf advisory for east shores of all Hawaii islands as the swell diminishes. However, caution is still advised due to strong breaking waves and currents that make swimming dangerous. A small craft advisory was also in effect for certain waters around Kauai and Oahu.
Safety Precautions Amidst High Surf
Authorities in both California and Hawaii are emphasizing safety. The public is urged to heed all advice from ocean safety officials. When in doubt, it is best not to go out into the water. For those near the coast, it’s important to be aware of the potential for waves to wash over beaches and rocks, and to secure any loose outdoor items that could be blown away by strong winds.
Sources
- Malibu Coast and Los Angeles high surf advisory updates for Saturday, San Luis Obispo Tribune.
- UPDATE: High surf advisory for east-facing shores canceled as northeast swell diminishes : Big Island Now, Big Island Now.
- High surf advisory canceled for eastern shores of Hawaii, Honolulu Star-Advertiser.
- Ventura County Beaches high surf advisory updates for Saturday, Sacramento Bee.
- High surf advisory extended for east shores, Hawaii News Now.
