Massive Waves Hit Coast Of OC, Drawing Surfers Across Region

NEWPORT BEACH, CA — A powerful swell has brought some of the biggest surf Southern California has seen this year, amassing countless people to the shores of Orange County to watch wave after wave crash ashore.

According to KTLA, the Wedge in Newport Beach — a surfing hotspot known for powerful waves — drew almost a thousand people to the location Tuesday.

The waves have been ranging from six to eight feet, with sudden 20 or 25 foot sets being common. The intense waves have lured a number of surfers to Orange County waters.

"It's the closest thing to flying," Pete Shaw told KTLA. Shaw flew in specifically to experience the swell. "You're just full-on in the moment, full commitment, no turning back. You just go for it. And the feeling is euphoric when you get a good one.

According to Surfer.com, the surf is caused by weekend storms over the South Pacific that produced 45-48-foot waves.

In Orange County, the mightiest waves were expected to last into Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service.

The National Weather Service warned of dangerous rip currents and hazardous swimming conditions earlier this week, with spots in coastal Orange County reaching 8-12 feet in some areas.

"It's gnarly. It's scary out there," another surfer, Ryan, told KTLA. "You see them coming at you, and even on the inside they're just praying and holding your breath, getting rag-dolled. It's gnarly."

California State Parks issued a statement about the powerful waves earlier this week.

"All beachgoers, please by advised of the high surf conditions continuing into Thursday, June 11th due to a powerful south swell hitting the coastal regions of Southern California," the announcement said. "Stay on high alert for rip currents. Swimming and surfing near an open lifeguard tower is heavily advised."