High Surf Warning
Del Norte, Humboldt and Mendocino counties, CA · until Sun 4:00 AM PST
Large breaking waves along the coast will lead to increased wave run-up on beaches with waves topping and washing over large rocks and jetties. These large waves can be erratic and unpredictable. Use extra caution near the surf zone as these large waves will be capable of sweeping people into the frigid and turbulent ocean water. Mariners traversing the bar are urged to exercise extreme caution or stay in port until the threat subsides. Please contact the U.S. Coast Guard for information regarding harbor and bar closures.
Southwestern Humboldt; Coastal Mendocino
* WHAT...Dangerously large breaking waves 30 to 40 feet.
* WHERE...Southwestern Humboldt and Coastal Mendocino Counties.
* WHEN...Until 4 AM PST Sunday. .
* IMPACTS...Breaking waves can sweep people off jetties and docks, and into dangerous seas. Life-threatening surf conditions and significant beach erosion can be expected.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...After only brief improvement late Saturday through Sunday, a second large swell is forecast late Sunday through Monday.
Coastal Del Norte
* WHAT...Dangerously large breaking waves 30 to 40 feet.
* WHERE...Coastal Del Norte County.
* WHEN...Until 4 AM PST Sunday. .
* IMPACTS...Breaking waves can sweep people off jetties and docks, and into dangerous seas. Life-threatening surf conditions and significant beach erosion can be expected.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...After only brief improvement late Saturday through Sunday, a second large swell is forecast late Sunday through Monday.
Northern Coastal Humboldt
* WHAT...Dangerously large breaking waves 30 to 40 feet.
* WHERE...Northern Coastal Humboldt County.
* WHEN...Until 4 AM PST Sunday. .
* IMPACTS...Breaking waves can sweep people off jetties and docks, and into dangerous seas. Life-threatening surf conditions and significant beach erosion can be expected.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...After only brief improvement late Saturday through Sunday, a second large swell is forecast late Sunday through Monday.
What to do during a High Surf Warning
- 1Stay out of the waterEven strong swimmers can be pulled away.
- 2If a rip current pulls youDon’t fight it. Swim parallel to the shore, then back in, or float and wave for help.
- 3Stay off rocks and jettiesLarge waves can sweep people away.
Watch vs. Warning
High Surf Warning questions
What is a rip current?
A narrow, fast channel of water flowing away from the shore.