The National Weather Service has issued a High Surf Advisory for San Luis Obispo County Beaches, Santa Barbara County Central Coast Beaches, and Ventura County Beaches, in effect from 1 AM Tuesday to noon PST Wednesday.
The advisory warns of large breaking waves ranging from 7 to 11 feet for San Luis Obispo County and Santa Barbara County, and 4 to 7 feet for Ventura County. Dangerous rip currents and very minor coastal flooding are anticipated for west-facing beaches.
The impacts of the advisory include an increased risk for ocean drowning, as rip currents may pull swimmers and surfers out to sea.
The large breaking waves pose potential dangers, including injuries, the risk of being washed off beaches and rocks, and the possibility of small boats capsizing near shore. Additionally, very minor coastal flooding is expected between 6 AM and 10 AM along west-facing beaches, coinciding with morning high tides around 6.5 feet.
Residents and visitors are instructed to remain out of the water due to the hazardous surf conditions or stay in close proximity to occupied lifeguard towers. Rock jetties are particularly risky during such conditions, and individuals are strongly advised to stay off the rocks.