Article:
California’s West Coast is facing a series of storms that continue to wreak havoc, bringing massive waves and coastal flooding to several coastal communities. Extreme conditions have forced water rescues, washed away cars, and injured onlookers.
The National Weather Service has issued High Surf Warnings and Coastal Flood Warnings for the central and southern California coast, including areas from Los Angeles to San Francisco. These warnings are in effect until New Year’s Day, with the next storm expected to hit this weekend. The unusually large surf, often towering over 20 feet, has prompted beach closures and sent damaging deluges of water into several beachside streets, homes, and businesses.
In Ventura County, waves have surged over seawalls and carried parked cars down the streets, blocking first responders’ paths. Fire Captain Brian McGrath reported that the flooding in a local hotel caused damage in all of its ground-floor rooms. Along the central California coast, High Surf Warnings and Coastal Flood Warnings remain in effect until Saturday afternoon, with conditions expected to be the worst during high tide. In Southern California, including the Los Angeles area, the warnings are in effect until Saturday night.
Videos posted on social media showed the waves crashing on the coast, causing damage to roads, loose items, and some vehicles. At least eight people have been injured as a result of the dangerous surf and coastal flooding. The National Weather Service’s Weather Prediction Center has emphasized the life-threatening situation for beachgoers, with waves reaching as high as 20 feet.
Californians are urged to exercise caution and stay updated on the latest weather advisories as the series of storms and dangerous surf continue to impact the West Coast. The overall threat of flash flooding appears low at this time, but residents and visitors should remain vigilant and heed all warnings from local authorities to ensure their safety.
