If you’re heading to the beach for relief from the heat, beware: Another hazard is looming.
Strong rip currents and above average surf are expected Tuesday along the San Diego County coastline due to a swell resulting from storm in the southern hemisphere, forecasters said.
A National Weather Service beach hazards statement for the county’s coastal areas is set to remain in effect through Thursday evening.
“A long-period south-southwest swell produced by a southern hemisphere storm will produce elevated surf, and strong rip and long shore currents at the Orange and San Diego County beaches through Thursday,” according to the weather service. “Highest surf will be along southwest-facing beaches.”
Surf of 4 to 6 feet is likely at southwest facing beaches, and 2- to 4-foot surf is expected elsewhere, forecasters said.
The elevated surf and the currents could result in dangerous swimming and surfing conditions, especially for those with little experience in the water, according to the weather service. Rip currents are typically more frequent and stronger in the vicinity of jetties, inlets and piers.
Beachgoers were advised to use caution in and around the water and to swim near a lifeguard.
The swell is expected to gradually fade Friday into the weekend, the weather statement said.
– City News Service