Crazy New Year's Day Surf In Santa Cruz County: 25-Foot Waves

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA — Mother Nature is ringing in the New Year with hazardous surf conditions along the Santa Cruz County coastline.

The National Weather Service has issued a Beach Hazards Statement that remains in effect through 9 a.m. New Year's Day, at which time a high surf advisory kicks in and lasts through 9 a.m. Thursday.

The NWS warns the coastline from Sonoma County southward through Monterey County is impacted.

"A long-period northwesterly swell will bring an increased threat of sneaker waves and rip currents to area beaches this afternoon through Wednesday morning. Swells will
increase on Wednesday and will cause very large breakers," the agency said.

Swell heights of 6 to 9 feet, at 22 to 24 seconds, are expected through Wednesday morning. Swells will then build to 11 to 14 feet, at 20 to 22 seconds, Wednesday. "This will generate breaking waves of 20 to 25 feet, favored locations may exceed 25 feet," the agency said.

"Large breaking waves will generate hazardous conditions on area beaches," the agency said. "This threat will be maximized on steeply sloped beaches. Rip currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea. Large breaking waves can cause injury, wash people off beaches and rocks, and capsize small boats near shore."

The agency is warning people to stay out of the water, or stay near occupied lifeguard towers, and to stay off rock jetties.

"Rock jetties can be deadly in such conditions," the agency continued.