Dana Point Beach Hazards Amid Week Of Storms

DANA POINT, CA — A beach hazard statement was released for Dana Point area beaches and Orange County's seaside communities, Tuesday.

Surf from 3 to 5 feet was expected, with local sets to 6 feet, will continue through Thursday, the National Weather Service said.

Beachgoers should be on the lookout for strong currents as well as the potential for lightning strikes.

"The elevated surf will result in dangerous rip currents and hazardous swimming conditions," they said. "Isolated thunderstorms are expected through Wednesday morning with the potential for lightning strikes to impact beaches."

Along with the other hazards, torrential overnight rains caused debris, bacteria and other potentially hazardous materials cascading to the coast. That storm was expected to remain spinning off the southern California coast until at least Thursday, though dryer weather was expected over the weekend, the National Weather Services has said.

Swimmers were advised to stay out of the water, as it contains a high level of bacteria, especially near storm drains, creeks and rivers during and after rain storms, can cause illness, an Orange County Healthcare Agency spokesperson told Patch.

"Swimmers should avoid coastal waters near runoff during and three days after a rainstorm," they said.

The advisory was expected to remain in place at least until Friday morning, if not through early next week.

In central Orange County, Tuesday's high in Anaheim was expected to be 65 degrees, rising to 69 on Wednesday and 70 on Thursday.