California – A calm-looking shoreline hides a serious threat along the North Coast today as the Pacific quietly loads energy toward local beaches. The water appears smooth at times, but sudden surges can rush far up the sand without warning.
According to the National Weather Service in Eureka, a Beach Hazards Statement is in effect from late tonight through Tuesday evening for coastal Del Norte County, the Northern Humboldt Coast, and southwestern Humboldt County. The primary concern is an increased risk of sneaker waves, which can arrive unexpectedly and sweep people off rocks, jetties, and low-lying beaches.
Large waves may also move heavy debris, including logs, which can crush anyone caught underneath. Officials stress that even experienced beachgoers are at risk, especially during moments when the ocean appears deceptively calm. Staying well back from the surf zone and avoiding rocks and jetties is strongly advised.
Closer to town, patchy dense fog continues to affect the Humboldt coast this morning. Visibility drops along Highway 101 from Arcata to Eureka and south toward Fortuna. Drivers should allow extra travel time, use low beams, and expect sudden reductions in visibility through the morning hours.
Temperatures remain mild for January, starting in the low 40s and rising into the mid-50s this afternoon. While skies may brighten at times, coastal conditions stay changeable. Fog redevelops tonight, and hazardous surf builds as wave energy increases overnight.
Through midweek, mostly cloudy skies dominate with cool mornings and mild afternoons. Beach hazards persist into Tuesday evening before slowly easing. Looking farther ahead, long-range outlooks point to continued seasonable temperatures with precipitation chances increasing later next week.
If you’re heading to the coast, keep your distance from the water and never turn your back on the ocean. Are conditions changing near your favorite beach? Share what you’re seeing along the coast.
Five-Day Outlook for Eureka, CA
Today: Patchy fog, partly sunny, high near 55
Tuesday: Morning fog, partly sunny, high near 56
Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, high near 56
Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 55
Friday: Mostly sunny, high near 55
