Monday, 27 July 2026, 22:52
Hurricane Genevieve, which reached Category 5 strength over the weekend, is forecast to send 8- to 11-foot waves to Southern California beaches this week, the National Weather Service reports. The storm remains far from land, but its energy is generating large swells that will impact the coast from Wednesday through Friday.
According to the National Hurricane Center, Genevieve’s sustained winds peaked at 160 mph early Monday, making it the first Category 5 hurricane in the Eastern Pacific since 2024. By Monday afternoon, winds dropped to 155 mph, still a powerful Category 4. The storm is expected to weaken further as it moves over cooler waters, becoming a tropical storm by Thursday.
The National Weather Service office in San Diego warns of life-threatening rip currents and breaking waves of 9 to 11 feet on south- and southwest-facing beaches. Swells are expected to arrive late Wednesday, with the most significant sets on Thursday. Forecasters note that the combination of long-period swells and lunar high tides may cause minor tidal overflow, especially during evening high tides. The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that water temperatures at Scripps Pier have reached 74°F, several degrees above average, which could amplify the storm’s effects.
This is the third tropical system to send waves to California in three weeks. Experts suggest that emerging El Niño conditions, characterized by warmer-than-normal sea surface temperatures in the Eastern Pacific, may be fueling stronger storms. Adam Roser, a forecaster at the National Weather Service, noted that sea surface temperatures off Baja California and San Diego are several degrees above average, though attributing any single storm to El Niño is difficult.
San Diego County beaches are expected to see the most significant impacts. The heavy surf will primarily affect south- and southwest-facing shores, including popular spots like La Jolla, Ocean Beach, and Imperial Beach. Beach advisories are already in effect, and officials urge beachgoers to stay out of the water due to dangerous rip currents and strong wave action.
According to USA Today, Hurricane Genevieve underwent rapid intensification, nearly doubling its wind speed from 80 mph to 155 mph in 24 hours. Such rapid strengthening is becoming more common in warmer waters. The last Category 5 hurricane in the Eastern Pacific, Kristy in 2024, followed a similar trajectory.
Beachgoers and residents along the Southern California coast should prepare for hazardous conditions from Wednesday through Friday. Avoid swimming and be cautious near jetties and piers. Stay tuned to local weather updates and heed all advisories.
