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Sneaker Waves, Life-Threatening Beach Hazards: Santa Cruz County

Officials warn beachgoers to "keep your eyes on the ocean" after issuing a beach hazards warning for the coastline from Sonoma to Big Sur.

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA — The National Weather Service is warning of possible life-threatening beach conditions in Santa Cruz County, and all west-facing beaches from Sonoma to Big Sur. The beach hazards warning, issued Friday morning, runs until 9 p.m. Friday.

Officials say there is an increased risk of strong rip currents, large shore break and sneaker waves, which can sweep unsuspecting beachgoers out to sea, NWS wrote.

Beachgoers should "always keep your eyes on the ocean," fisherman should avoid fishing from rocks and jetties, and swimmers should refrain from swimming in areas of large shore break, NWS wrote. Watch out for kids and pets.

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Read more about the beach hazards warning here.


Find out what's happening in Santa Cruzfor free with the latest updates from Patch.


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