The National Weather Service has issued a Beach Hazards Statement for all shoreline from northern Sonoma County to southern Monterey County effective 11 a.m. Thursday through 11 p.m. Friday.
Meteorologists advise that long period waves will bring an increased risk of sneaker waves and stronger rip currents. Long-period forerunner waves are expected to last 17-20 seconds. Swells are expected to reach only 3-to-5 feet, possible reaching 6 feet at times.
Meteorologist Roger Gass said:
“The situation here is the swells are really small and they don’t come in as frequently, and that’s what catches people off-guard.”
Beachgoers are advised to keep an eye on kids and pets, stay off coastal jetties and to never turn their backs to the ocean.
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