Feb 4, 2024; Pebble Beach, California, USA; A person walks on the beach below the course as waves crash and tents blow in the wind along the eighth fairway during the postponed final round of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am golf tournament at Pebble Beach Golf Links. Mandatory Credit: Michael Madrid-USA TODAY Sports
California – California’s coastline faces dangerous marine conditions this week, as gale-force winds and high seas have triggered a series of advisories and warnings from the National Weather Service (NWS). Stretching from the Oregon border down to Mexico, the Pacific coast is under some form of marine alert, with particularly hazardous conditions for mariners and swimmers expected through at least Wednesday night.
Strong northwest winds—forecasted to gust up to 45 knots (about 50 mph)—are combining with rough seas of 9 to 12 feet in some regions, prompting small craft advisories and more severe gale warnings. The NWS urges boaters to remain docked and secure their vessels, as smaller boats are especially vulnerable to capsizing or damage in such conditions.
“These are steep, wind-induced waves caused by a strong ridge of high pressure building offshore,” said NWS meteorologist Julia Moreland, based at the Eureka office. “We’re seeing an increase in northerly flow that’s creating these hazardous conditions for mariners.”
Gale warnings will remain in effect in Northern California, including the San Francisco Bay Area, until early Thursday. Farther south, including Los Angeles, the warnings will expire Tuesday night, although strong winds may persist slightly longer inland.
The storm system is not limited to coastal waters. Wind advisories are also in effect for San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties, where gusts may exceed 45 mph. These winds could knock down tree limbs and create hazardous driving conditions, particularly for high-profile vehicles like trucks and RVs.
Authorities are urging beachgoers to use caution, as the strong onshore winds increase the risk of rip currents along the coast. The NWS warns that even experienced swimmers can be swept out to sea in such conditions, and urges the public to remain onshore or swim near lifeguards.
In an alert issued Tuesday, NWS Los Angeles said: “Mariners should alter plans to avoid these hazardous conditions. Remain in port, seek safe harbor, alter course, and/or secure the vessel for severe conditions.”
Forecasters expect the worst of the conditions to ease gradually by Thursday. Until then, authorities stress the importance of heeding all warnings and staying informed through local weather updates.
