Beachgoers in the Bay Area are advised to exercise extreme caution along coastlines from Thursday midnight until Friday, February 6. A beach hazards statement issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) warns of a high risk of sneaker waves and strong rip currents due to breaking waves reaching as high as 14 to 19 feet.
These powerful waves can cause significant physical injury and increase the risk of drowning when swimmers are caught off guard by sudden and unexpected movements. In fact, large waves have been known to overpower swimmers, sweeping them out to sea from rocks, jetties, and beaches.
The NWS is urging beach users to stay out of the water altogether due to hazardous surf conditions. This includes avoiding areas with jetties, piers, rocks, and other waterside infrastructure, where sneaker waves can be particularly treacherous.
In essence, the warning is clear: never turn your back on the ocean. While it may seem counterintuitive, these powerful waves can catch even the most experienced surfers off guard. In fact, the NWS is emphasizing that sneaker waves can appear without warning, sweeping people into the sea from seemingly solid ground.
Swimmers and beachgoers are advised to remain vigilant and heed this warning. The conditions are expected to worsen throughout Thursday and Friday, making it crucial for everyone to prioritize their safety above all else.
These powerful waves can cause significant physical injury and increase the risk of drowning when swimmers are caught off guard by sudden and unexpected movements. In fact, large waves have been known to overpower swimmers, sweeping them out to sea from rocks, jetties, and beaches.
The NWS is urging beach users to stay out of the water altogether due to hazardous surf conditions. This includes avoiding areas with jetties, piers, rocks, and other waterside infrastructure, where sneaker waves can be particularly treacherous.
In essence, the warning is clear: never turn your back on the ocean. While it may seem counterintuitive, these powerful waves can catch even the most experienced surfers off guard. In fact, the NWS is emphasizing that sneaker waves can appear without warning, sweeping people into the sea from seemingly solid ground.
Swimmers and beachgoers are advised to remain vigilant and heed this warning. The conditions are expected to worsen throughout Thursday and Friday, making it crucial for everyone to prioritize their safety above all else.