High Surf And Dangerous Rip Tides To Hit Pacific Palisades

LOS ANGELES, CA — The surf is up as crowds head to the beach for the long Independance Day weekend, but the danger from rip currents is especially high too, prompting a beach hazard warning by the National Weather Service. LA County beachgoers should take extra precautions to stay safe.

The highest tides will come Thursday night just as the night skies light up with fireworks.

"Dangerous rip currents and breaking waves are expected due to elevated surf of 3 to 6 feet with local sets to 7 feet," said an NWS statement. The surf will be highest later Wednesday into Thursday.

High tides near 7 feet will occur each evening between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. through Thursday, according to the NWS.

"There is an increased risk for ocean drowning," the statement said. "Rip currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea. Large breaking waves can wash people off beaches and rocks, and capsize small boats near shore. Pooling of sea water is possible around high tide at beach and harbor areas ... Enhanced beach erosion is also expected. No significant damage is expected.

"A Beach Hazards Statement is issued when threats such as rip currents, longshore currents, sneaker waves and other hazards create life- threatening conditions in the surf zone. Swim near a lifeguard. If caught in a rip current, relax and float. Don't swim against the current. If able, swim in a direction following the shoreline. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help." the statement said.

Similar conditions will prevail in Orange County, where a beach hazard statement will also be in effect through Thursday evening, with above- average surf of 3-6 feet expected as a result of a long period southwest swell.

City News Service and Patch Staffer Paige Austin contributed to this report.