Powerful waves expected for beach goers on the Central Coast

A large swell targeting the central coast, could pose danger.

Lifeguards are on high alert this week to keep the public safe. A Beach Hazard Statement goes into effect Thursday morning through Saturday. This means an increased risk of sneaker waves, rip currents, and large shore breaks. And for south facing beaches like Santa Cruz, officials are prepared.

Harbor police, Don Kinnamon says, “We are expecting a large south swell to pick up starting tomorrow,
Thursday. Our lifeguards are aware of that, public safety is aware of it, and as the harbor patrol we’ll be out there doing our work to make sure people stay safe.”

And with it being a holiday week, this could pose some problems. “We expect a lot of crowds, a lot of people coming down to our coastline and being on the water. And in public safety, all the agencies are working together here today to make sure the public are one safe,” says Don.

And protecting yourself on the beach isn’t as hard as it seems. Some top tips are: stay within your comfort zone, choose beaches with a life guard, and remain calm if you get swept out by the ocean.