Strong Surf, Big Waves This Weekend At Los Angeles Beaches

LOS ANGELES, CA — The National Weather Service released a Beach Hazards Statement for all Los Angeles County beaches through Saturday night.

High tide Friday evening would arrive at 8:30 p.m. at 4.5 feet and again at 10 a.m. Saturday morning. A 6.7-foot high tide was expected at 9:15 p.m. Saturday.

Friday morning, coastal overflow and enhanced beach erosion were seen along the shores of Malibu. Such erosion will continue throughout Saturday, the NWS advised.

Friday through Saturday evening, visitors to our shores will see sets from 7 to 8 feet which is excellent for experienced surfers and dangerous for inexperienced swimmers.

High rip currents are also expected, leading to dangerous swimming conditions, NWS meteorologist Alex Tardy says.

"There is an increased risk of ocean drowning," according to Tardy. "Rip currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea and waves can wash people off beaches and rocks and capsize small boats near shore."

Water pooling is also possible around high tide at all beach and harbor areas that are uncommon with normal tidal ranges.

Minor beach erosion is possible, they said.

"Use caution when in or near the water and always swim near a lifeguard," they said, advising that only strong swimmers should enter the ocean.

"Remain out of the water due to hazardous swimming conditions, or stay near occupied lifeguard towers," Tardy advised. "Rock jetties can be deadly in such conditions. Stay off the rocks."

Got a "Big Wave" picture to share? Please send it to your Patch Editor to be featured on Patch Los Angeles County.