Forecasters Warn Of Dangerous Sneaker Waves Along Bay Area Coastline

SAN FRANCISCO, CA — Forecasters warned residents of an increased risk of dangerous sneaker waves Monday along the Bay Area coastline.

The National Weather Service issued a beach hazards statement for San Francisco, coastal North Bay, including Point Reyes National Seashore, San Francisco Peninsula coast, and southern Monterey Bay and Big Sur coast counties.

Forecasters said northwest-facing beaches are most at risk for sneaker waves beginning Monday afternoon as long period northwest swell moves through the coastal waters. The beach hazards statement will be in effect through late Monday night, according to the NWS.

"Large, unexpected waves can sweep across the beach without warning, sweeping people into the sea from rocks, jetties and beaches," NWS Bay Area forecasters wrote Sunday. "These sneaker waves can also move large objects such as logs, crushing anyone caught underneath."

Forecasters advised the public to remain out of the water to avoid hazardous swimming conditions.