Weather officials announced on Sunday that the threat of flooding and hazardous surf at California beaches will persist until Wednesday.
Although waves are not predicted to reach the same height as last week, which resulted in two fatalities, caution is still warranted.
The National Weather Service reported that San Francisco experienced its highest summer ocean water level ever late Saturday.
At 1.83 feet above the normal high tide, this level is the highest noted outside of the November to March period, when winter storms typically generate surges, according to officials. Records for water levels date back to 1898.
A coastal flood advisory remains active until Wednesday morning, the weather service confirmed.
The most significant tides will occur during the evening hours, officials indicated.
Over the past week, the biggest risks of perilous rip currents and sneaker waves have been noted on beaches oriented south or southwest, according to officials.
The City of Newport Beach has alerted residents to brace for a succession of king tides continuing through Tuesday.
City workers have been providing sandbags to residents to aid in protecting their properties from potential flooding. Authorities have advised beachgoers to refrain from parking in low-lying areas.
“Drivers are encouraged to navigate slowly through flooded zones to prevent creating wakes that could exacerbate flooding and affect adjacent properties,” the city stated.
The ocean swell from last week delivered historic 20-foot waves to the Wedge, a surf break located at the tip of the Balboa Peninsula.
On Wednesday, rescuers tried to rescue two women who were pulled out to sea from a beach in Santa Cruz. One woman lost her life, while the other was reported in critical condition, officials disclosed on Friday.
The body of 5-year-old Amada Mia Brown from San Bernardino was found in Laguna Beach on Thursday, two days after she went missing due to high surf.
Officials urge those visiting the beaches to steer clear of rocks and jetties during high surf events and to keep a vigilant watch on the ocean.
If you find yourself caught in a rip current, do not panic, officials advised. Swim parallel to the shoreline until free from the current’s grasp, rather than heading directly back to the beach.
If necessary, tread water and signal for help.
