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NWS Warns West Coast of Dangerous Surf From Powerful Pacific Swell

A strong North Pacific low is sending long-period waves capable of sneaker surges that can flood low shorelines.

Overview

  • High-surf advisories cover Oregon, California and Washington, with peak impacts from Wednesday afternoon into Thursday morning depending on location.
  • Forecasters expect breaking waves up to about 25 to 26 feet, with rip currents, beach erosion and waves overtopping jetties.
  • The National Weather Service warns that sneaker waves can follow up to 30 minutes of smaller surf, increasing the risk of sweeping people and debris into the ocean.
  • Small-craft advisories advise inexperienced mariners and operators of smaller vessels to avoid navigating in hazardous seas generated by the swell.
  • In the Bay Area, a high surf advisory runs from 1 a.m. Thursday to 10 p.m. Friday with 15 to 20 foot surf and strong rip currents.