Portland, OR – Those heading to the Oregon coast for Thanksgiving weekend should use extra caution near the water, as dangerous sneaker waves are expected to impact beaches through Saturday. The National Weather Service warns that these powerful, unexpected waves can surge far higher and faster than typical surf, potentially sweeping people and pets into the ocean with little notice.
According to the National Weather Service in Portland, the risk begins Thursday and continues through Saturday along the entire Oregon coastline. Sneaker waves can easily move large driftwood and logs, posing a deadly threat to those near the surf zone or digging for razor clams. Coastal visitors are urged to stay off jetties, logs, and rocks, and to keep children and pets well away from the waterline.
These waves are especially concerning during the busy holiday weekend, as more people are likely to visit beaches without realizing the sudden threat. Officials emphasize never turning your back on the ocean and always having a quick escape route in mind.
The sneaker wave risk is expected to taper off by late Saturday, but beachgoers should remain vigilant until further updates from the National Weather Service.
