NWS issues beach hazards warning for L.A. County through Tuesday noon
Rip currents and 7-foot tides threaten swimmers in Malibu and surrounding areas until midday Nov. 10.
By Anthony Foster ·
Beachgoers in Los Angeles County face elevated dangers through Tuesday noon. The National Weather Service issued an updated beach hazards statement on Friday at 1:39 a.m. The alert covers a wide stretch of the coast, from Catalina and the Santa Barbara Islands to Ventura County.
Officials expect dangerous rip currents and breaking waves caused by surf reaching 4 to 6 feet. High tides will peak at 7.2 to 7.6 feet above mean lower low water each morning. The NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard office warned that surf conditions will likely worsen around Monday. A High Surf Advisory and Coastal Flood Advisory are probable for the Ventura Coasts on that day.
The agency noted that other coastal areas may also require a Coastal Flood Advisory on Monday. Sea water pooling is possible in beach and harbor areas during high tide, a condition uncommon with normal tidal ranges. Enhanced beach erosion is also a risk during this period.
The NWS stated there is an increased risk of ocean drowning. Rip currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea, while waves can wash people off beaches and rocks. Small boats nearshore risk capsizing. The agency advised people to remain out of the water or stay near occupied lifeguard towers. It specifically warned that rock jetties can be deadly in such conditions and urged visitors to stay off the rocks.
The statement remains valid until 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 10. Affected locations include Malibu, Los Angeles County Beaches, the Santa Barbara County Southwestern and Southeastern Coasts, and Ventura County Beaches.
