Coast Guard Issues Warning About Deadly Sneaker Waves and Rip Currents

If you are planning on heading out to the beach this holiday season watch out for sneaker waves and rip currents.

The Coast Guard is warning boaters and beach-goers along the Northern California coast, from the Oregon-California border to San Luis Obispo, about an increase in rip currents and possible sneaker waves.

Rough seas and sneaker waves can catch people by surprise, with deadly consequences, said the Coast Guard. According to the Oregon Parks Department, sneaker waves “appear without warning, often surging high up on the beach with deadly force, and are impossible to predict. Sneaker waves also carry a large amount of sand that can saturate your clothes, weighing you down and making escape difficult if not impossible.”

People walking along the beach should not turn their backs to the ocean. These large swells can create strong rip currents and and potential sneaker waves at steeper beaches, warns the Coast Guard.

According to the Coast Guard, families and dog owners should protect themselves and their loved ones from surf zones and avoid low-lying areas. Fishermen should also avoid fishing from rocks and jetties.