The first significant rainfall of the winter season in Southern California has led to a dramatic overflow of San Juan Creek, inundating the renowned surf spot at Doheny State Beach in Dana Point. The deluge, amplified by human intervention with shovels, sent a massive amount of runoff into the ocean, impacting the popular longboard wave.
Key Takeaways
- The initial winter storm caused San Juan Creek to breach, flooding Doheny State Beach.
- Drone footage captured a large volume of dark, river water mixing with the ocean.
- Surfers and environmental advocates noted the presence of trash and pollution in the runoff.
- The event serves as a reminder of the "72-hour rule" for surfing after rain due to potential water contamination.
The Impact of the Storm
The recent storm, while described by some as a "light sprinkle" by Californians, was enough to cause localized flooding. In Dana Point, the situation was exacerbated when San Juan Creek broke, releasing a significant volume of water and debris into the Pacific. This influx of river water directly affected the surf conditions at Doheny State Beach, a spot famous for its gentle, longboarding-friendly waves.
Drone footage shared by Greg Viviani (SoLagLocal) vividly illustrated the extent of the flooding, showing a vast expanse of dark, murky water flowing from the river mouth into the ocean. This visual evidence underscores the reason behind the common recommendation to avoid surfing for at least 72 hours after rainfall, especially after the first storm of the season, due to potential water quality issues.
Environmental Concerns and Community Response
Beyond the immediate impact on surfing, the overflow brought environmental concerns to the forefront. Blair Conklin, who was present at Doheny during the event, observed a substantial amount of trash carried by the river runoff. He expressed concern about the water quality, noting a foul smell and the potential health risks associated with breathing the air around the contaminated water.
Conklin urged the community to participate in a beach cleanup to address the plastic and other debris that washed ashore. Viviani also emphasized the connection between upstream actions and ocean health, reminding people to be mindful of what enters storm drains, as everything ultimately flows into the Pacific Ocean. Both advocates highlighted the collective responsibility in protecting marine environments.
A Reminder for Surfers and Locals
The flooding at Doheny serves as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of local waterways and the ocean. It highlights the importance of responsible waste disposal and the need for ongoing efforts to maintain the health of coastal ecosystems. The event also reinforces the precautionary advice given to surfers regarding water safety after periods of heavy rain.
Sources
- Massive River Floods Iconic Orange County Surf Spot (Video), SURFER Magazine.
- Watch: Massive Muddy River Floods Popular South OC Surf Spot After Rain: Report, Patch.
