Dangerous Beach Conditions Forecast Along Sonoma, Bay Area Coast

SONOMA COUNTY, CA — A beach hazards statement warning of dangerous conditions along the Bay Area coastline, from Sonoma County to Big Sur, went into effect Wednesday morning and was expected to continue through 4 p.m. Thursday, according to the National Weather Service San Francisco Bay Area.

"A high to extreme risk of sneaker waves will exist during this timeframe," forecasters said. "The largest energetic sneaker waves will arrive irregularly every few minutes to as infrequently as once every 30 minutes during otherwise deceptively calmer seas and consequently may catch those on coastal jetties, rocks, piers, or shorelines off-guard and may injure them or knock them into the cold, turbulent ocean."

In addition, strong rip currents will accompany the energetic wave train, particularly at west-northwest facing beaches.

Moderate to locally large breaking waves of 14 to 18 feet will be possible later in the day Thursday at west-northwest facing beaches as the swell period decreases and swell heights increase.

Beachcombing is not advised during this time frame.

"These type of events claim lives each year along our coast, so extreme vigilance is advised if visiting the coast," forecasters said.

The weather service advises:

• Stay off coastal jetties;
• Keep your eyes on children and pets; and
• Never turn your back to the ocean.