Northern California Faces Life-Threatening High Surf With 30-Foot Waves

Warnings remain in effect through Sunday as dangerous conditions threaten lives, infrastructure, and coastal safety.

The National Weather Service has issued a high surf advisory for Northern California, predicting waves of 20 to 30 feet through Sunday afternoon.
Officials are urging residents and visitors to avoid beaches, piers, and jetties due to life-threatening rip currents, sneaker waves, and storm debris.
A 150-foot section of the Santa Cruz Wharf collapsed earlier this week, sending three workers into the ocean; all were rescued with minor injuries.
Recent incidents include one fatality at Sunset State Beach and ongoing searches for individuals swept away by high surf at Marina State Beach and Pebble Beach.
The advisory highlights the risks to inexperienced swimmers and emphasizes keeping a safe distance from the coastline to prevent further tragedies.