The National Weather Service in Los Angeles/Oxnard issued a Coastal Flood Advisory and High Surf Advisory on September 4, effective from 6 a.m. Saturday through 11 p.m. Tuesday, with conditions peaking Sunday and Monday. The advisories cover Catalina and Santa Barbara Islands, Ventura County beaches, Malibu Coast, and Los Angeles County beaches. The NWS expects moderate coastal flooding and large breaking waves of 5 to 8 feet, with local sets to 10 feet, along with widespread, very strong rip currents.
KEY FACTS
- The advisories are in effect from 6 a.m. Saturday to 11 p.m. Tuesday, with peak conditions expected Sunday and Monday.
- Large breaking waves of 5 to 8 feet, with local sets to 10 feet, are expected, especially on south facing shores.
- Rip currents will be widespread and very strong, potentially pulling swimmers and surfers out to sea.
- Moderate coastal flooding is likely around high tide in vulnerable low lying areas such as parking lots, beaches, and walkways.
- The NWS does not expect significant damage to roads or structures.
CONTEXT
The National Weather Service issued the advisories on September 4 at 10:58 a.m. PDT. The Coastal Flood Advisory warns of moderate coastal flooding, while the High Surf Advisory warns of dangerous waves and rip currents. The affected areas include Catalina and Santa Barbara Islands, Ventura County beaches, Malibu Coast, and Los Angeles County beaches. The NWS notes that high tides of 6.3 feet will occur around 5 p.m. Saturday, and 6.7 feet at a later time (the advisory text is cut off). The most susceptible areas for coastal flooding include Avalon, Long Beach (Alamitos Peninsula), and Oxnard to Malibu, including Point Mugu. The NWS emphasizes an increased risk of ocean drowning due to strong rip currents and large waves that can cause injury, wash people off rocks and beaches, and capsize small boats near shore. Enhanced beach erosion is also expected. The advisory is based on official NWS forecasts and observations.
WHY IT MATTERS
These conditions pose a significant public safety risk for beachgoers, swimmers, and boaters along a densely populated coastline. The combination of large waves and strong rip currents can lead to life threatening situations, and coastal flooding may disrupt access to beaches and low lying infrastructure. Residents and visitors in the affected areas should heed official warnings and exercise caution near the ocean.
WHAT TO WATCH
- Monitor local NWS updates for any extensions or changes to the advisory timing or areas.
- Check tide charts and high tide times, as flooding is most likely around high tide.
- Heed beach warning flags and lifeguard instructions; avoid entering the water if rip currents are present.
- Stay away from rocks, jetties, and other areas where large waves can unexpectedly wash over.