Rain, wind and high surf hit the Central Coast

The Central Coast awoke Wednesday to widespread rain. The Pacific storm also raised concerns over dangerous surf, erosion, and damaging winds.

Caltrans said it would close Highway One between Paul’s Slide and Mud Creek by mid-morning Wednesday due to the threat of mud and rock slides.

The National Weather Service issued a High Surf Advisory for the Santa Cruz and Monterey County coastlines through 4 a.m. Friday.

Forecasters say Northwest swells of 13-16 feet and breaking waves of 18-24 feet are possible. Dangerous rip currents, high wave run-up, and beach erosion are also possible.

A Gale Watch has also been issued for all coastal waters for Thursday. Winds of 30-40 kts are expected, with gusts to 50 kts and 14-19 ft. seas.

The rain brought numerous road repair projects to a halt. In Salinas, as many as 20 projects will be delayed until weather conditions improve.

City engineer Jim Sandoval said planning on other projects will continue — indoors.

“As much as we need the rain water, we have a lot going on and a lot under design and in construction,” said Sandoval. “Sometimes the rain helps, just because we have a lot going on.”

After the storms pass, city engineers will inspect construction sites for silt that could carry toxic runoff into storm drains.

Contractors face contractually-mandated deadlines to complete road work, but the city can adjust the time line in case of weather delays.