High Surf Alert for San Diego and Orange County Beachgoers

A high surf advisory is in effect as waves reach impressive heights along the San Diego coastline.

News Summary

San Diego and Orange County are under a high surf advisory due to waves reaching heights of 4 to 12 feet. Beachgoers are urged to be cautious as strong rip currents and high surf can create dangerous conditions. The advisory began at 1:21 a.m. and is set to last until Wednesday morning, with lifeguards increasing staffing in response to the expected crowd. Inexperienced swimmers and children are advised to stay out of the water, while certain areas, like the Ocean Beach Pier, are closed for repairs from surf damage. Safety is the top priority.

High Surf Alert for San Diego and Orange County Beachgoers

San Diego and Orange County are bracing for some impressive, yet potentially dangerous surf conditions. The National Weather Service has stepped in with a high surf advisory that began early Monday morning at 1:21 a.m. and is slated to run until 10 p.m. the same day. So, if you had plans for a beach day, you might want to rethink your options!

What to Expect

Beach lovers should prepare for some serious action in the water, as predicted waves are expected to range between 4 to 8 feet, with isolated sets hitting up to 10 feet, specifically in the southern stretches of San Diego County. If you’re in Orange County, don’t get too comfortable either; the advisory signals waves of 5 to 8 feet with the occasional 11-foot set washing ashore at west-facing beaches.

As the day rolls on, surf conditions are expected to mellow out by tonight and Tuesday. However, for now, cautious beachgoers should be aware that an extended high surf advisory will remain in effect until 4 a.m. on Wednesday. Expect waves to reach a staggering magnitude of 6 to 12 feet, with some sets even peaking at an impressive 13 feet!

Stay Safe!

Along with those towering waves, the advisory brings along some added hazards such as strong rip currents. These currents can be particularly treacherous for even seasoned swimmers. Everyone is reminded to err on the side of caution—especially those who might not be confident in their swimming abilities. Inexperienced swimmers and children are strongly advised to stay out of the water. It’s better to play it safe, right?

Life Guard Actions

Those planning to hit the beach should also keep in mind that lifeguards have upped their staffing levels over the Christmas holiday period. This is a smart move, as the high surf is expected to attract larger crowds. However, there’s a risk of hazardous situations, so people are urged to steer clear of fishing or watching the waves from places like exposed coastal structures or rocks. Keep those little ones a safe distance away from the ocean to avoid any unexpected rogue waves or surges that might catch anyone off guard.

Impact on Local Infrastructure

In a related note, the Ocean Beach Pier is currently closed for repairs due to high surf damage. Recent videos have shown new impacts from the waves, showcasing just how powerful Mother Nature can be. Lifeguards have reported that conditions have been quite choppy, and the surf has been described as “junky surf.” This means that surfers hunting for some winter waves might find it tough to navigate through the surf.

Conclusion

As we dive into this high surf advisory, everyone is reminded to prioritize safety. Whether you’re planning a Sunday Funday at the beach or simply enjoying a stroll along the shoreline, being cautious is key. Remember: the ocean can be both beautiful and unpredictable. Enjoy the scenes from a distance, stay safe, and let’s ride out these big waves wisely!