Coastal areas in Hawaii and Southern California are under high surf advisories and facing the threat of coastal flooding. Large waves are expected to impact shorelines, leading to potential inundation of low-lying areas and beaches. Residents and visitors are urged to exercise caution and heed safety warnings.
Key Takeaways
- High surf advisories have been issued for the north and west-facing shores of Kauai and Niʻihau in Hawaii.
- Coastal flooding is also a concern in these Hawaiian islands due to elevated tides combined with moderate surf.
- Southern California, from Los Angeles to San Diego counties, is experiencing high surf and a beach hazards statement is in effect.
- Tidal overflow and "abnormally large tidal fluctuations" could lead to flooding in low-lying beach areas and coastal roads.
Hawaiian Islands Brace for High Surf and Coastal Flooding
On Kauai and Niʻihau, a high surf advisory was in effect, with forecasts predicting large breaking waves of 10 to 16 feet along north- and west-facing shores. While surf heights have since declined, a threat of minor coastal flooding persists through Sunday morning (December 7, 2025). This flooding is attributed to moderate surf combining with higher-than-predicted monthly tides.
Vulnerable areas, including low-lying coastal roadways, docks, boat ramps, and other coastal infrastructure, could experience impacts. Beaches that are normally dry may be briefly inundated, and minor coastal erosion is also possible. Swimming in these advisory areas is considered dangerous due to strong breaking waves and currents.
Authorities are advising the public to avoid driving through flooded roadways, rinse vehicles with fresh water if salt water exposure is unavoidable, and move valuables to higher ground. Boaters should monitor vessels and secure watercraft stored on beaches.
Southern California Coastline Faces Similar Threats
In Southern California, a beach hazards statement has been issued for coastal areas stretching from Los Angeles to San Diego counties. This advisory warns of tidal overflow that could flood some beach areas, with high tides potentially reaching 7.2 to 7.7 feet, primarily between 8 and 10 a.m. daily.
Los Angeles County Lifeguards have cautioned about "abnormally large tidal fluctuations" that could create flooding risks in low-lying areas. They urge beachgoers to exercise caution, stay aware of changing conditions, and maintain a safe distance from the waterline.
Similar warnings are in place for Orange and San Diego county coastal areas, with waves expected to top 7 feet and the possibility of localized flooding. The hazard statement for these counties was in effect through Friday morning.
