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The Surf’s Way, Way Up as Huge Waves Pound the California Coast
The New York Times • • general
Key Points:
- The California coast experienced the largest waves in nearly two years, causing intense surf and raising flood risks for coastal roads and communities.
- High surf and coastal flood warnings were issued, with the National Weather Service urging people to avoid the water and stay away from the shore for safety.
- The massive waves were driven by powerful winds far out in the Pacific Ocean, which generated a swell that traveled across the ocean and intensified along the coast.
- Wave heights exceeded 40 feet at exposed Northern California beaches and reached over 50 feet at Mavericks, a renowned big-wave surf location near San Francisco.
- The dangerous conditions coincided with a rainstorm that hit the state, further contributing to the flooding and hazardous coastal environment.
