Waves Crash Over California Pier Amid High Surf Advisory

The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a high surf advisory for parts of coastal California on Friday, December 13, warning beachgoers of swells up to 14 feet high.

The advisory was called for the northern Bay Area along the state’s coast. Swells were projected to reach 12 to 14 feet high, with some breakers possibly reaching 22 feet.

Breakers are waves that become “too steep” and “unstable,” according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

“Use extra caution near the surf zone as these large waves will be capable of sweeping people into the frigid and turbulent ocean water,” the NWS said.

This video shows waves crashing onto the pier in Pacifica, California. Credit: Savannah Peterson via Storyful