Overview
- High-surf advisories covered much of California, Oregon and Washington from Wednesday into Thursday, with the Bay Area under an advisory through Friday night.
- Forecasters traced the event to a powerful low near Alaska that sent long-period swell, with breakers reaching about 25 to 26 feet in places.
- The NWS highlighted risks from sneaker waves, rip currents, beach erosion and coastal inundation that could damage exposed infrastructure.
- Officials urged people to stay off beaches, rocks, piers and jetties, warning that sudden surges can sweep beachgoers or large logs into the water.
- Small-craft advisories warned inexperienced mariners to avoid hazardous seas, and agencies are monitoring for additional swells that could keep surf elevated into next week.