The National Weather Service has issued a beach hazard statement for the San Diego County coast, effective Sunday through Friday evening. The warning, which also includes Orange County beaches, is due to elevated surf and strong rip currents originating from a south swell.
The NWS reports that a swell from 190 degrees with a period of 14 to 16 seconds will generate surf of 3 to 6 feet, with sets up to 7 feet along south-facing beaches, accompanied by a high rip current risk. While surf in San Diego County will be slightly lower, hazardous swimming conditions persist due to high rip current and longshore current risks.
Beachgoers are advised to stay out of the water. If caught in a rip current, the NWS recommends yelling for help, remaining calm, and conserving energy by floating.
To escape, swim parallel to the shore and then back toward the beach, avoiding direct swimming against the current.