What changes for San Diego residents: Expect large breaking waves and hazardous ocean conditions along south- and southwest-facing beaches from Sunday evening through Tuesday night. The National Weather Service in San Diego updated a high surf advisory that will affect local coastline recreation, surfing, and shoreline safety.
Advisory details and timeline
The NWS issued the update at 4:40 a.m. Saturday and said the advisory is in effect from Sunday, 5 p.m., until Tuesday, 11 p.m.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Expected breaking waves | 4 to 7 feet with sets up to 8 feet |
| Swell | South swell 4–5 feet from 180–200°, 13-second period |
| Tides | Generally at or below 5.5 feet; localized overflow and erosion possible |
| Advisory ends | Tuesday, 11 p.m. — surf expected to decrease by Wednesday |
Safety impacts and local concerns
The NWS cautioned that the combination of the south swell and daily tides could produce localized beach erosion and minor tidal overflow at susceptible shoreline locations. Officials stressed that conditions will create dangerous swimming and surfing conditions.
"Dangerous swimming and surfing conditions and localized beach erosion," the NWS said. "Inexperienced swimmers should remain out of the water due to dangerous surf conditions."
Residents who use the coast for exercise, dog walking, or beachgoing should be aware that sections of shoreline may become temporarily unsafe. Lifeguards and local agencies typically increase patrols during high surf events; however, specific operational plans from city or county lifeguard services were not detailed in the advisory.
- Recreation: Avoid entering the water if you are not a strong, experienced swimmer or surfer.
- Beach access: Watch for signs and barriers at eroding sections of beach; stay clear of unstable bluff edges.
- Boaters: Exercise caution nearshore and check marine forecasts before heading out.
San Diego residents who plan to be on or near the coast should monitor updates from the National Weather Service and local lifeguard agencies. The NWS noted that the swell and surf are expected to decrease by Wednesday, at which point conditions should begin returning to normal.
For the latest local conditions and any closures, check National Weather Service San Diego forecasts and advisories and follow guidance from San Diego County and city lifeguard services.
