High surf will batter the Los Angeles County coast today amid strong rip currents, creating dangerous swimming conditions, according to the National Weather Service.
A beach hazard statement will be in effect along the L.A. County coastline until 8 a.m. Saturday morning.
“A long-period west swell will build surf to 3 to 6 feet today and linger through Saturday morning,” said an NWS statement. “Strong rip currents will increase the risk of ocean drowning. Sneaker waves can suddenly wash people off of beaches and rock jetties.”
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The biggest surf is expected on exposed west-facing beaches, including Hermosa, Redondo, Manhattan and Venice beaches, according to the NWS.
In contrast, the NWS forecast only a “moderate rip current threat” in Orange County but said these currents could be “life-threatening.” The highest sets will be north of Newport Beach and south of Del Mar.
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--City News Service; Image via Wikimedia Commons
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