Coastal North Bay Under Beach Hazards Statement

NORTH BAY, CA — Coastal North Bay is under a beach hazards statement from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, with waves 13- to 15-feet high and 15 seconds apart expected in coastal waters, weather officials said.

"Expect an increasing risk of large breaking waves, strong rip currents and sneaker waves by late morning into tonight," the National Weather Service San Francisco Bay Area said. The hazard is for west- to northwest-facing beaches, where caution is advised. Northwest swell will subside late tonight and Saturday."

The weather statement extends from Coastal North Bay, including Point Reyes National Seashore, to the San Francisco Peninsula Coast, Northern Monterey Bay, Southern Monterey Bay and Big Sur Coast.

The surf zone will be dangerous due to large breaking waves, strong rip currents and sneaker waves, forecasters said.

The public is advised to remain out of the water to avoid dangerous conditions.

"People walking along the beach should never turn their back to the sea," the weather service said. "If walking along the beach, never turn their back to the sea. Avoid fishing from rocks or jetties. The coastal waters remain cold. Coldwater shock may cause cardiac arrest and it also can cause an involuntary gasp reflex causing drowning, even for a good swimmer."