San Francisco, Calif. – Coastal residents and visitors from the North Bay to northern Monterey Bay are being urged to stay out of the water today as a long-period southwesterly swell increases the risk for sneaker waves and rip currents. The hazard will remain in effect until 9 p.m., with the greatest danger at southwest-facing beaches including Stinson Beach, the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, and Twin Lakes.
According to the National Weather Service, sneaker waves can surge much farther up the shore than expected, even sweeping over rocks and jetties. These waves, combined with strong rip currents, can catch swimmers, anglers, and beachgoers off guard, making conditions particularly dangerous.
Safety officials advise avoiding coastal jetties, keeping a close eye on children and pets, and never turning your back on the ocean. Cold water temperatures further increase the risk for hypothermia should someone be pulled in.
The Beach Hazards Statement will expire tonight, but officials warn similar swells can occur unexpectedly during the summer. Additional advisories are possible if wave activity remains strong in coming days.
