Hurricane Genevieve is set to bring extreme weather conditions to Southern California beaches this week, with the National Weather Service issuing a High Surf Advisory from Wednesday through Saturday.
The hurricane, which briefly reached Category 5 status, is expected to generate swells of up to 11 feet along the coast, creating hazardous conditions for beachgoers.
According to the National Hurricane Center, Genevieve is currently moving northwest at 12 mph, with sustained winds of 155 mph. The storm is located about 500 miles southwest of the southern tip of Baja California. While it is not expected to make landfall in California, the hurricane’s powerful wind field is sending large swells toward the coast, posing a threat of life-threatening surf and rip currents.
The Los Angeles Times reports that the National Weather Service has also issued a Coastal Flood Advisory, warning of potential flooding in low-lying beach areas, including parking lots and roads. The advisory cautions that long-period swells may produce deceptive lulls, followed by large, sweeping sets that can wash people off jetties and rocks.
As reported by Surfer, lifeguard agencies across Orange, San Diego, and Los Angeles counties are preparing for extreme rip currents and have increased staff to ensure public safety. The US Open of Surfing, currently underway in Huntington Beach, is expected to experience the full impact of the swell, providing challenging conditions for competitors.
Hurricane Genevieve is forecast to weaken as it moves into cooler waters later this week, but the swells are expected to persist through the weekend, offering exhilarating conditions for experienced surfers while posing severe risks for swimmers.
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