Beachgoers warned over 22- to 27-foot waves

Beachgoers are being cautioned as a large, long-period swell is expected to affect Bay Area beaches later this week, according to the National Weather Service.

The long-period swell will be active Thursday and Friday and will bring enhanced rip currents, sneaker waves, coastal erosion and a large surf, weather service officials said.

Surf heights during this time are expected to reach between 22 and 27 feet, with larger sets possible.

Large sneaker waves are capable of catching people off-guard and pulling them into the cold, turbulent ocean water, according to the weather service.

During the swell, beachgoers are being asked to stay away from and out of the water. They should also remain farther back from the water’s edge and off of rocks and jetties, weather service officials said.