Los Angeles, California – Dangerous rip currents and high surf are expected to hit Southern California beaches through Memorial Day Weekend, prompting officials to urge swimmers to stay near lifeguards or stay out of the water entirely.
According to the National Weather Service Los Angeles/Oxnard office, a strong south swell is driving elevated surf and powerful rip currents from Friday through Monday, especially along Ventura, Los Angeles, and Orange County coasts. Beachgoers are advised to avoid rock jetties and only swim at beaches with lifeguards on duty.
The risk is particularly high at popular holiday spots like Zuma Beach, Santa Monica, and Huntington Beach, where crowds are expected to swell. Strong rip currents can pull even experienced swimmers away from shore. Officials say beachgoers should never swim alone and should check local signage or talk to lifeguards before entering the water.
Hazardous surf is expected to persist into Monday evening, with additional marine warnings possible if conditions worsen.
