Weather
Hazardous Beach Conditions In Santa Cruz County
Breaking waves of up to nine feet, rip currents and sneaker waves are forecast this week along the Santa Cruz County coastline.
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA — The National Weather Service is warning the public of hazardous conditions forecast this week in the waters off of the Santa Cruz County coastline.
The beach hazards warning is in effect from 6 p.m. Tuesday to 8 p.m. Wednesday. Breaking waves of five to nine feet at 18- to 20-second periods are possible Wednesday and forerunner waves of 21- to 23-second periods are possible Tuesday.
There will be an increased risk of rip currents, which can sweep swimmers out to sea, and sneaker waves, which can knock down unsuspecting beachgoers and sweep them into the sea.
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The public is asked to stay off the rocks, which can prove deadly under beach hazard conditions, and remain out of the water or stay close to occupied lifeguard towers.
Anyone caught in a rip current should float and relax — not try to swim against the current — and swim parallel to the shoreline if possible, NWS said. If swimming is not possible, face the shore, and call or wave to get help.
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Don't turn your back to the ocean, NWS said.
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