NWS Warns of Elevated Surf and Strong Rip Currents Along San Diego and Orange County Coasts

Overview

• The National Weather Service has issued a beach hazard statement covering the coastline from the U.S.–Mexico border north through San Diego into Orange County, warning of hazardous swimming conditions through the end of the advisory period.
• Meteorologists say a south swell from about 190 degrees with a 14–16 second period will produce 3 to 6 foot surf and occasional 7 foot sets on south-facing beaches, increasing wave energy and current strength.
• Officials advise beachgoers to stay out of the water because narrow, fast-moving rip currents and longshore currents can sweep people offshore and are a leading cause of ocean rescues and drownings.
• If someone is caught in a rip current, the NWS recommends staying calm, yelling for help, conserving energy, staying afloat while waiting for rescue, and swimming parallel to shore rather than fighting the current.
• Higher surf and currents could lead to more lifeguard rescues, temporary beach closures, and localized coastal flooding at high tide, so visitors should check local conditions and follow lifeguard and official guidance before going to the beach.