EUREKA, Calif. – Large, unexpected waves are expected to pound Northern California beaches through Saturday evening, creating life-threatening conditions along the Humboldt and Mendocino coastlines. The National Weather Service has issued a Beach Hazards Statement warning beachgoers to stay well back from the surf, especially near rocks, jetties, and steep beaches.
According to the National Weather Service in Eureka, powerful sneaker waves can surge without warning, sweeping people into the ocean and moving heavy debris such as logs. These waves often strike after a calm stretch of smaller waves, catching even experienced coastal visitors off guard. Authorities urge anyone visiting the shoreline to avoid wet sand, never turn their back on the ocean, and stay far above the high-tide line.
Coastal roads such as U.S. Highway 101 near Trinidad and Highway 1 around Fort Bragg may see sea spray and reduced visibility as the strong surf builds. Park rangers are reminding visitors to delay tidepool exploration and beach walks until conditions improve late Saturday night.
Inland, Humboldt County enjoys mostly sunny skies through the weekend, with mild fall temperatures in the low 60s and patchy morning fog. The calm weather inland contrasts sharply with the dangerous coastal surf, reminding residents to exercise extra caution if heading to the shore for fall photos or pumpkin patch trips.
Five-Day Forecast for Eureka, California:
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high near 62°F, light north wind.
- Saturday: Partly cloudy, patchy fog early, high near 62°F. Sneaker wave risk continues.
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high near 61°F.
- Monday: Sunny, high near 62°F, low around 48°F.
- Tuesday: Partly cloudy, high near 61°F with calm winds.
