LOS ANGELES, CA — Los Angeles County lifeguards are urging beachgoers to use extra caution after a new High Surf Advisory took effect Wednesday evening, releasing fresh footage of an ocean rescue in Manhattan Beach as hazardous conditions are expected to continue through the weekend.
The advisory, issued by the National Weather Service, begins at 5 p.m. Wednesday and remains in effect until 5 p.m. Saturday for Los Angeles County beaches. Forecasters are warning of large breaking waves of 4 to 8 feet, dangerous rip currents and minor coastal flooding around times of high tide. The highest surf is expected along south-facing beaches exposed to southerly swells.
In a social media post Wednesday, Los Angeles County Lifeguards shared video submitted by members of the public showing an ocean rescue at Manhattan Beach involving Baywatch Redondo crews.
The agency said another round of large surf and strong rip currents is expected through the weekend and urged anyone planning to visit the beach to speak with a lifeguard before entering the water.
"Understanding the day's conditions, knowing your limits and swimming in front of an open lifeguard tower is the best ways to ensure a safe day at the beach," the agency wrote.
The city of Redondo Beach also issued a King Harbor Boater Alert Wednesday afternoon, warning that larger waves, strong currents and hazardous conditions are expected along the coastline through the weekend.
City officials urged boaters to use extra caution near the King Harbor entrance and reminded the public that the harbor breakwall remains off limits.
The hazardous surf is being driven by swells generated by Hurricane Genevieve, which intensified into a major hurricane over the eastern Pacific before beginning to weaken. Although the storm is expected to remain well offshore, forecasters say it will continue sending long-period swells toward Southern California that can create dangerous surf and powerful rip currents.
The National Weather Service advises swimmers to stay near occupied lifeguard towers, avoid rocks and jetties and remain out of the water if conditions appear unsafe.
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