Hurricane Narda, though offshore, is generating significant swells and dangerous conditions along the Southern California coastline. The National Weather Service has issued a Beach Hazards Statement for beaches spanning from Santa Barbara County to San Diego County, including Catalina Island, warning of elevated surf and strong rip currents through Wednesday.
Key Takeaways
- Dangerous rip currents and breaking waves of 3 to 5 feet are expected, with sets up to 6 feet possible for south and southwest-facing beaches.
- The high surf began Sunday, peaked Monday and Tuesday, and poses a threat of minor coastal flooding.
- Lifeguards have been exceptionally busy, with over 80 rescues reported in Newport Beach alone due to strong rip currents.
Dangerous Conditions Prompt Beach Advisories
The National Weather Service has alerted the public to hazardous conditions, with surf heights ranging from 3 to 5 feet and occasional sets reaching up to 6 feet on south and southwest-facing beaches. These powerful south swells, a result of Hurricane Narda churning in the Pacific, began impacting the coast on Sunday and reached their peak on Monday and Tuesday. Forecasters are advising beachgoers to be aware of the elevated surf, dangerous rip currents, and the potential for minor coastal flooding along south-facing shores, a situation expected to persist through Wednesday.
Lifeguards on High Alert
Lifeguards across Southern California have been working overtime to ensure beach safety. In Newport Beach, officials reported over 80 rescues in the past few days, primarily due to the treacherous rip currents. Newport Beach Fire Department Chief Lifeguard Brian O’Rourke emphasized the danger, explaining how people can be caught off guard in shallow water, knocked off their feet, and then pulled offshore by strong currents. Visitors are strongly urged to heed the advice of local lifeguards and remain near lifeguard towers while enjoying the beaches.
Surfers Embrace the Swells, With Caution
Despite the inherent dangers, the high surf has attracted many surfers to popular spots like Tourmaline Beach in San Diego. Experienced surfers and instructors acknowledge the challenging conditions, advising less experienced individuals to exercise extreme caution or avoid the water altogether. Observers noted that while many are out, only a select few are successfully catching the longer rides, some lasting up to 30 seconds, a significant duration compared to typical days. Visitors are reminded that even strong swimmers should be wary of the powerful rip currents.
Broader Weather Patterns
While Hurricane Narda is the primary driver of the high surf, a broader weather pattern involving a low-pressure system moving inland is also influencing coastal conditions. This system is bringing cooler temperatures and deepening the marine layer to coastal areas. Although temperatures are expected to warm slightly mid-week, they are likely to remain below seasonal averages. Another low-pressure system is anticipated for the weekend, potentially bringing further temperature drops.
### Sources
- Hurricane Narda causing high surf at Southern California beaches, KTLA.
- Beach hazard advisory issued until Tuesday for San Diego coastline due to high surf – NBC 7 San Diego, NBC 7 San Diego.
- Hurricane Narda causing high surf at Southern California beaches, Yahoo.
- San Diego Braces for Cooler Weather and Rough Surf as Low-Pressure, Hoodline.
