News Summary
Beachgoers in San Diego are urged to stay out of the water due to dangerous rip currents and elevated surf heights of 4 to 8 feet. The National Weather Service warns that conditions will improve by midweek, but until then, safety measures are in place. Those still planning to visit should expect crowded beaches as many choose to stay ashore. Additionally, big waves are anticipated in Hawaii, marking an upcoming thrilling event for surfers. It’s a good time to prioritize safety while enjoying the beach.
Beachgoers in Sunny San Diego, Beware!
If you’re planning to hit the beaches in San Diego this week, it might be wise to think twice before diving into the waves! Due to a combination of powerful swells and dangerous rip currents, officials are seriously advising beachgoers to stay out of the water through Tuesday evening.
What’s Happening?
As we approach the week, it’s essential to know that conditions at many popular beaches, including Mission Beach, La Jolla, and Huntington Beach, are a bit risky. The National Weather Service in San Diego is forecasting elevated surf heights of 4 to 7 feet, with some sets possibly reaching an impressive 8 feet! This swell has been described as coming from a southwest direction near 200 degrees, peaking this Monday before things start to settle down midweek.
Why the Concern?
It’s not just the size of the waves that’s causing a stir. Those strong currents can easily sweep even the most experienced swimmers off their feet, pulling them out towards the open ocean. This is why officials are urging everyone – swimmers, surfers, and boaters alike – to keep their toes on the shore for now.
Potential Risks Ahead
But that’s not all! Waves could wash over jetties and rocks, which creates dangers for small boats that may be close to the shore, risking capsizing. So, if you’re thinking about taking out a kayak or a small sailboat, it’s best to play it safe and postpone those plans.
Planning a Trip? Expect Crowds!
For those still planning to visit the coast, be prepared for what’s known as crowded conditions along the I-5 corridor. As ocean access becomes unsafe, more beachgoers are expected at other locations, which could lead to some busy beach scenes!
The Good News Is Coming
Although these hazardous conditions are expected to linger until Tuesday, there’s light at the end of the tunnel. The dangerous rip currents and rough surf are predicted to gradually ease by late Tuesday, blowing in a much calmer set of seas by midweek. Additionally, as October rolls in, you can anticipate an increase in patchy fog along the coast starting Wednesday morning. However, warmer and sunnier afternoons are on the horizon as fall begins to take hold.
Fun Waves Ahead for the Weekends
Looking ahead, surfers should keep an eye out for the arrival of a northwest wind swell, set to produce even larger waves, estimated between 5 to 10 feet, over the upcoming weekend. This swell could lead to exciting and exhilarating wave riding experiences for the daring surfers of San Diego!
Big Waves Brewing in Hawaii
Meanwhile, across the ocean in Hawaii, particularly in the Waimea Bay area, an urgent high surf warning is in place, with waves potentially hitting a staggering 50 feet. Surfers and officials are gearing up for what could be a thrilling yet dangerous big wave surfing competition at Waimea Bay for the Eddie Big Wave Invitational, expected to take place this Sunday, as long as conditions remain favorable.
Safety Measures in Place
As anticipated crowds and risks grow, public safety measures are being instituted to keep everyone as safe as possible. So if you’re headed to the beaches, stay informed, respect the warnings, and keep your feet on the sand for now. Your beach day will be there waiting for you once the conditions improve!
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Additional Resources
- Fox 5 San Diego: San Diego Fall Surfing
- NBC San Diego: Spring Swells and Large Surf
- San Diego Union-Tribune: Hazardous Surf Conditions Expected
- The Inertia: San Diego Surf Conditions
- NBC News: Pacific Welcomes Winter XL Waves
- Wikipedia: Surfing
- Google Search: Surf Conditions San Diego
- Google Scholar: Surf Forecast
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Surfing
- Google News: San Diego Surf Conditions
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
