The powerful south swell that battered Southern California’s coastline earlier last week left its mark on the San Clemente Pier, causing structural damage and prompting a temporary closure of the landmark as city officials assessed conditions.
The swell arrived on June 9 and was widely considered one of the largest south swells to impact the region in recent years. Because of the swell’s direction, Orange County experienced some of the largest surf in Southern California, with waves reaching 8 to 10 feet and occasional sets approaching 15 feet in exposed locations.
In San Clemente, the rough surf pushed waves beneath the pier deck and into the structure’s support system. As a precaution, city officials closed the pier while crews evaluated potential damage…