From Sfgate · · 1m 10s
Santa Cruz Beaches Close Due to Dangerous Waves
Santa Cruz closes beaches and wharf as dangerous waves threaten coastal areas.
In brief
Santa Cruz closes beaches and wharf as dangerous waves threaten coastal areas. Santa Cruz closes all city beaches and the wharf through Sunday due to forecasted 25-35 foot waves that could cause dangerous flooding and drownings. Originally reported by Sfgate.
Evacuation warnings issued
Authorities have issued evacuation warnings for low-lying coastal areas of Santa Cruz County amid hazardous ocean conditions.
“Large waves have the potential to reach coastal homes and properties, causing dangerous flooding and making access to affected areas difficult or unsafe”
Beaches close this weekend
Santa Cruz closes all city beaches and the wharf from Friday night through Sunday morning due to forecasted dangerous waves.
“Dangerously large breaking waves are forecast to reach 25 to 35 feet, with occasional 50-foot waves”
Wharf safety concerns
The wharf is structurally safe but closed as a precaution after a collapse during a winter storm in 2024.
“Part of the structure collapsed during a powerful winter storm just before Christmas in 2024”
Public safety warnings
The National Weather Service urges the public to avoid beaches and high surf areas during the weekend.
“Any wrong move or stumble could turn deadly. No selfie is worth your life”
Recent incidents
A 24-year-old woman was swept out to sea at Panther State Beach due to dangerous tides.
“A 24-year-old woman was swept out to sea on Sunday at Panther State Beach as dangerous tides reached a narrow rock arch and passage”
Additional closures
Carmel River State Beach, Garrapata State Beach, and Asilomar State Beach close through Tuesday due to high surf.
“Carmel River State Beach, Garrapata State Beach and Asilomar State Beach will be closed for the same time period”
The bottom line
Santa Cruz closes all city beaches and the wharf through Sunday due to forecasted 25-35 foot waves that could cause dangerous flooding and drownings.
