Dangerous rip currents and rising surf will threaten Santa Monica beachgoers through Monday morning, Nov. 16, with the strongest impacts expected Saturday.
A National Weather Service beach hazards statement covers Los Angeles County beaches, the Malibu coast and Ventura County beaches. The agency’s Wednesday evening update warned that surf would increase significantly Friday night into the weekend, with breaking waves of 7 to 10 feet possible at exposed west-facing beaches.
The incoming westerly swell could cause significant beach erosion and increase coastal flooding risks. West-facing beaches are expected to experience the greatest impacts.
The Weather Service warned that currents can carry swimmers and surfers offshore, while powerful waves can sweep people from beaches and rocks and overturn small boats near shore.
Rain is also approaching. In its Thursday morning forecast discussion, the agency predicted showers Thursday night into Friday afternoon, followed by more widespread rain late Friday through Saturday morning.
Combined rainfall from those two rounds could total a quarter-inch to an inch across much of the region, with locally higher amounts possible. Thunderstorms are possible along the coastal plain and over coastal waters.
Another storm could bring rain Sunday night through Tuesday, followed by an additional system Wednesday into Wednesday night. Forecasters cautioned that rainfall estimates for next week remain subject to change.
Beachgoers should avoid entering the water during hazardous conditions, keep away from rock jetties and follow lifeguard instructions. The Weather Service said coastal hazards could persist beyond the current statement’s Monday expiration.
