The National Weather Service (NWS) in Los Angeles is warning Southern California residents about the possibility of large ocean waves and dangerous swimming and surf conditions this weekend.
“Strong to gale force winds and dangerous choppy seas will affect all coastal waters through the weekend,” NWS Los Angeles posted Friday, April 26, 2024, on X.
With high surf comes an increased risk for rip currents and drowning. Rip currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea, while large breaking waves can cause injury to beachgoers onshore and capsize small boats.
The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) urges Californians to use caution over the next couple of days and follow the below ocean safety tips.
Ocean Safety Tips:
- When in doubt, don’t go in.
- Keep children within easy reach.
- Be aware of changing tides and weather conditions.
- Watch for unexpected large waves.
- Be aware of floating debris.
Rip currents are the number one risk at most beaches. If caught in a rip current:
- Stay calm, don’t fight the current.
- Swim out of the current parallel to the shore. Once out of the current, swim back to shore.
- If you can’t escape, float or tread water.
- Call or wave for assistance.
Stay up to date on the forecast from the National Weather Service.