Southern California beaches are seeing high waves and minor flooding Friday morning, as high tides and big waves combine along the coast.
In Huntington Beach, KTLA’s Omar Lewis reported early Friday that surfers were already out chasing waves as sets more than six feet high rolled in before the morning’s highest tide.
“Surfers are here early, chasing those long rides when the big sets of waves start rolling in,” Lewis said. “The strongest waves are expected to coincide with the high tide this morning, which is expected between 8 and 10 am.”
Lifeguards were on duty to monitor the situation as the National Weather Service maintained a high surf advisory for Los Angeles and Orange County beaches through the afternoon, warning of strong rip currents, waves and minor coastal flooding.
A west-northwest swell is driving waves in the 3- to 7-foot range across the coasts of Ventura, Malibu, Los Angeles County and Orange County, with larger sets to the north. Officials say the combination of seven-foot high tides and high waves could send water into parking lots, driveways and other low-lying areas on the beachfront.
Overnight at Seal Beach, crews were called out just after 10pm on Thursday due to flooding south of the pier. Video obtained by KTLA showed mud and water spreading across the sand and nearby walkways, and city maintenance crews pumping water back into the ocean before high tide Friday at 9:20 a.m.
Seal Beach officials said they have begun building winter sandbars and stocking sandbag stations near the beach and Fire Station 44 as part of their efforts to combat potential flooding.
Beach hazard and surf height statements also remain in effect through Saturday morning in Ventura County, where waves could reach 8 feet.
Meteorologists and rescuers urge people to:
- Stay away from rocks and jetties that can be hit by large waves.
- Maintain a safe distance from waves and avoid flooded areas.
- Do not enter the water unless you are experienced and near an equipped lifeguard tower.
The risk of flooding is expected to ease later Friday, but high waves and strong currents may continue until Saturday along parts of the coast.