Laguna Beach Hazard: High Waves, Strong Rip Currents Expected

LAGUNA BEACH, CA — Looking to escape the heat inland? An extended period of extremely hot temperatures for inland Orange County remain through Wednesday, the National Weather Service said.

"A strong high pressure aloft over the southwest states will create hot conditions away from the coast at least through midweek, peaking Tuesday and Wednesday," the National Weather Service reported on Monday, June 19. "High pressure may weaken slightly the latter part of the week with inland temperatures slightly lowering through Friday."

If you are planning to head to Laguna Beach, you are advised to visit your local lifeguard before heading out into the water.

Strong rip currents, long-shore currents and surf topping 6-feet sets are possible at Orange County beaches through Thursday, June 22, the National Weather Service said.

An elevated southerly swell and large tidal swings will bring strong rip and long shore currents this week. Elevated surf heights, minor tidal overflow are possible at local beaches, according to the National Weather Service report.

"Currents of this nature increase the risk of drowning, especially for inexperienced swimmers," the National Weather Service said.
Waves and surf from two- to four-feet Wednesday, with local sets of five feet north of Oceanside, with local sets to six-feet possible into Orange County Wednesday and Thursday, the National Weather Service said in recent release.

Peak high tides will be near six-feet on Tuesday, 6.5-feet on Wednesday and 7-feet on Thursday. Low tides will be at the .5-foot and below .5-feet Wednesday, with low tide at lower than 1-foot on Thursday.

"Obey posted warning signs and flags and talk to a lifeguard before swimming," the NWS advised. "Use caution when in or near the water and always swim near a lifeguard."

Those who remain in inland Orange County cities will see high temperatures ranging from the low 90s on Monday, rising between 90 and 95-degrees Tuesday and Wednesday. The Santa Ana Mountains could reach highs upwards of 103-degrees, according to the NWS.

"Those working or spending time outdoors, the elderly, children and those unaccustomed to excessive heat will be most susceptible to dangerous heat illness," the NWS reported.

Residents are advised to drink plenty of fluids, stay in air conditioned rooms and to stay out of the sun.

You are also reminded to check up on relatives and neighbors.

Photo, courtesy Greg Viviani