Southern California’s beaches will look a little different this weekend — with high waves, rip currents and possibly even water spouts.
It was shaping up to be a remarkably cold and wet day along the coast on Friday, Feb. 24, as it is caught up in the winter storm moving through the region.
Southern California coast battered by rain, wind
The National Weather Service forecasts wind gusts of 40-plus mph, and waves up to seven feet tall today through Saturday, Feb. 25. Strong rip currents and very high surf are expected as well, with a small chance for water spouts. A possible water spout was spotted in Dana Point on Thursday.
Temperatures were mostly in the low 40s and mid-50s.
In Newport Beach on Friday, lifeguards reported three-foot surf and strong rip currents.
“The bulk of the activity occurring today so far has been up north in Los Angeles and Ventura (counties),” said Elizabeth Schenk, a National Weather Service forecaster. “We’re going to see shower activity increase through this afternoon, and then the heaviest activity will hold off until late tonight and early tomorrow.”
The biggest impact of the weather along local beaches will be gusty winds and heavy rain with potential thunderstorms sprinkled in.
The National Weather Service has a bit of advice for anyone thinking of taking a boat out today — don’t.
“This is going to be very hazardous for all marine craft,” Schenk said.
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