LA County beaches face dangerous surf and high tides through Tuesday

The National Weather Service issued an updated beach hazards statement covering Los Angeles County beaches on Friday at 1:39 a.m. The alert remains valid until noon on Tuesday, November 10.

Forecasters predict elevated surf with waves reaching four to six feet. This activity will drive dangerous rip currents and breaking waves across the region. The NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard office notes that surf conditions are likely to worsen around Monday for the Ventura Coasts.

High tides of 7.2 to 7.6 feet above mean lower low water are expected each morning. Impacts for surf and coastal flooding will peak on Monday. At that time, the agency is likely to issue a High Surf Advisory and a Coastal Flood Advisory for the Ventura Coasts. A Coastal Flood Advisory may also be needed for other coastal areas on that day.

The risk of ocean drowning is increased. Rip currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea. Waves can wash people off beaches and rocks and capsize small boats nearshore. Sea water may pool in beach and harbor areas during high tides, a condition uncommon with normal tidal ranges. Enhanced beach erosion is also possible.

The NWS advises people to remain out of the water due to hazardous swimming conditions. If they enter, they should stay near occupied lifeguard towers. Rock jetties present a deadly risk in these conditions, so the agency recommends staying off the rocks.

The affected locations include the Catalina and Santa Barbara Islands, Malibu, Los Angeles County Beaches, the Santa Barbara County Southwestern and Southeastern Coasts, and Ventura County Beaches.