Two individuals were rescued after a pier in Santa Cruz, California, partially collapsed due to severe storm surf. Lifeguards assisted two swimmers while a third managed to swim to safety. As coastal roads were closed, Governor Newsom’s office coordinated with local authorities amid forecasts of dangerous storm conditions and high ocean swells across the coast.
On Monday, two individuals were rescued after a portion of a pier in California collapsed and fell into the ocean due to heavy surf generated by a significant storm impacting the central coast. This storm is anticipated to bring hurricane-force winds to the waters off the Pacific Northwest. Residents near Santa Cruz Wharf, situated approximately 70 miles south of San Francisco, received warnings urging them to avoid low-lying shore areas, given the dangers posed by the storm conditions.
During the incident, lifeguards successfully rescued two persons from the turbulent waters, while a third swimmer managed to reach safety independently, as reported by the Santa Cruz Fire Department on social media. The condition of those rescued remains unspecified, and following the pier’s collapse, various coastal roads in Santa Cruz were closed for safety.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has received updates on the situation, and the state’s Office of Emergency Services is working in coordination with local authorities to address the fallout from the collapse. Forecasts indicate that ocean swells along California’s central coast may reach heights of up to 26 feet as the storm intensifies.
Moreover, a rapidly evolving storm is expected to bring winds exhibiting hurricane-force strength to offshore areas of the Pacific Northwest, with wind speeds potentially peaking at 80 miles per hour and seas exceeding 30 feet. The Santa Cruz Wharf incident is reminiscent of a prior event a year prior, where the Seacliff State Beach pier suffered irreparable damage due to another potent winter storm.
The article discusses a recent incident caused by intense weather conditions affecting the California coast, highlighting dangers posed by severe storms. With the Pacific Northwest bracing for hurricane-strength winds and significant ocean swell, residents are reminded of the inherent risks associated with coastal areas during storms. Previous similar events underline the persistent threat to coastal structures and safety during such extreme weather conditions.
In summary, the partial collapse of the Santa Cruz Wharf due to heavy surf highlights the dangers associated with severe weather conditions along the California coast. The timely rescue of individuals from the water underscores the importance of precautionary measures and the responsiveness of emergency services. Forecasts predict continued high ocean swells and strong winds, necessitating ongoing vigilance for coastal residents.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
