If you’re planning a trip to the beach along the Northern California coast this weekend, be extra careful. Sneaker waves—those unexpected, powerful surges that crash onto shore without warning—are expected through Saturday morning. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Beach Hazards Statement for areas including Del Norte, Humboldt, and Mendocino counties, warning everyone to stay alert and stay back from the shoreline.
These waves might look like any other, but they’re deceptively dangerous and have taken lives in the past.
What Are Sneaker Waves & Why Are They So Dangerous?
Sneaker waves are exactly what they sound like—waves that “sneak up” on you. Unlike regular waves, which break at predictable intervals, these come out of nowhere and surge much farther onto shore than you’d expect.
Why they’re so dangerous:
- They strike without warning—one second the beach is calm, and the next, a massive wave rushes in.
- They can knock you off your feet and drag you into deep water before you even realize what’s happening.
- They move massive driftwood logs, turning them into dangerous, rolling hazards.
Even when the ocean looks peaceful, one rogue wave is all it takes to turn a fun beach trip into a life-threatening situation.
Who Needs to Be Extra Careful?
This warning mainly applies to the Northern California coast, but sneaker waves can happen anywhere with steep beaches or jetties. Those most at risk include:
- People walking near the water’s edge
- Kids playing in the sand
- Fishermen standing on rocks or jetties
- Dog owners letting their pets play too close to the waves
A Heartbreaking Reminder: Sneaker Waves Have Taken Lives
Just last month, a father and his 8-year-old son were tragically swept into the ocean by a sneaker wave at Cowell Ranch State Beach near Half Moon Bay. Sadly, this isn’t a one-time accident—this beach alone has seen multiple fatalities. These tragedies are a painful reminder that the ocean’s beauty can be deceiving, and that extra caution can mean the difference between life and death.
Beach Safety Tips – How to Stay Safe
The ocean isn’t something to fear—but it is something to respect. Keep these lifesaving tips in mind:
- Stay back from the shoreline. Waves can surge much farther than expected.
- Never turn your back on the ocean. Always keep an eye on the waves.
- Avoid standing on rocks, jetties, or steep beaches. These areas are extra risky.
- Watch for logs and debris. If you see driftwood moving, sneaker waves are likely nearby.
- Keep kids and pets away from the water. Even ankle-deep water can become dangerous in an instant.
When Will It Be Safe Again?
The Beach Hazards Statement is set to expire early Saturday morning, but that doesn’t mean the risk completely disappears. Sneaker waves can happen at any time, so it’s always smart to stay cautious near the water, especially in winter when ocean conditions are more unpredictable.
We all love a good beach day, but the ocean is powerful and unpredictable. If you’re heading out this weekend, keep your distance, stay aware, and spread the word to keep others safe. No Instagram photo, no game of fetch with your dog, and no selfie near the waves is worth putting your life at risk.
