Beach Hazards Statement Issued for Los Angeles and Ventura County Coasts
- An updated beach hazards statement affecting Catalina and Santa Barbara islands, Malibu, Los Angeles County beaches, and Ventura County beaches has been issued by the National Weather Service.
- While the incoming surf is expected to remain smaller than the conditions brought by earlier storms this month, lingering coastal erosion has heightened vulnerabilities across the region.
- The weather service highlights an increased risk of ocean drowning, noting that rip currents can easily pull swimmers and surfers out to sea.
An updated beach hazards statement affecting Catalina and Santa Barbara islands, Malibu, Los Angeles County beaches, and Ventura County beaches has been issued by the National Weather Service. The advisory remains in effect until Monday, Sept. 28, at 5 a.m., warning residents and visitors of dangerous rip currents and breaking waves driven by elevated surf.
Impacted Areas and Vulnerable Locations
While the incoming surf is expected to remain smaller than the conditions brought by earlier storms this month, lingering coastal erosion has heightened vulnerabilities across the region. The NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA office reports that the areas of most concern include Avalon as well as the Peninsula and Belmont Shore sections of Long Beach. Moderate flooding of seawater is likely over vulnerable low-lying coastal areas, particularly around the time of high tide. Impacts may extend to beach parking lots, bike paths, and harbor walkways, alongside moderate to locally significant beach erosion. Very localized damage is possible in the most vulnerable zones.
Safety Risks and Official Advisories
The weather service highlights an increased risk of ocean drowning, noting that rip currents can easily pull swimmers and surfers out to sea. Large breaking waves also carry the potential to cause injury, wash people off beaches and rocks, and capsize small boats near the shore.
Take the necessary actions to protect flood-prone property. Do NOT drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth. Remain out of the water due to dangerous surf conditions, or stay near occupied lifeguard towers. Rock jetties can be deadly in such conditions, stay off the rocks.
NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA Individuals seeking additional local weather alerts and safety updates can visit the official Weather Advisory page.