The National Weather Service (NWS) office in Los Angeles/Oxnard has issued a Beach Hazards Statement for San Luis Obispo County and Santa Barbara County beaches, effective now through 11 p.m. PDT this evening.
What’s happening
Elevated surf is generating widespread, very strong rip currents and powerful breaking waves. High tides are expected to reach about 6.5 feet around 8:30 p.m., creating conditions that can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea and wash people off the beach or nearby rocks.
Where the danger is greatest
The advisory covers all public beaches along the central California coast in San Luis Obispo County and the central‑coast beaches of Santa Barbara County. Rock jetties and shoreline cliffs are especially hazardous under these conditions.
When the risk ends
The hazardous surf and rip‑current threat will remain in place until 11 p.m. PDT tonight, after which conditions are expected to subside.
How to stay safe
- Avoid entering the water entirely while the advisory is active.
- If you must be near the shoreline, stay close to an occupied lifeguard tower.
- Never attempt to swim near rock jetties or cliffs; the combination of strong currents and high surf makes them deadly.
- Be aware that pooling of seawater can occur around high tide in areas that normally do not see such accumulation.
While the NWS notes that enhanced beach erosion is possible, no significant damage is expected at this time.
What officials are saying
Local lifeguard services are increasing patrols and urging the public to heed the advisory. “Our priority is to keep families safe,” said a spokesperson for the Santa Barbara County Lifeguard Service. “We ask everyone to respect the warning and stay out of the water until conditions improve.”
Residents are encouraged to monitor local news outlets and the NWS website for updates. If you see someone in distress, call 911 immediately.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
