Beach goers capture incredible video of waves created by storms on both coasts
Beach goers capture incredible video of swells created by storms on both coasts
Hurricane Cristobal in the Atlantic and Tropical Storm Marie in the Pacific are stirring up impressive waves that are prompting officials to prohibit swimming on some beaches while drawing huge crowds to watch the surfers on others.
At the famous Wedge surf break in Southern California's Newport Beach, crowds lined the beach to watch surfers catch the epic waves caused by Marie, which remains hundreds of miles off shore.
Many of those on the beaches posted video of the waves, including these Vines showing the surf:
While the impressive swells are making for a great show, lifeguards are warning inexperienced swimmers and surfers to stay out out of the water. There have been 287 ocean rescues at Los Angeles County beaches in the past two days. In Ventura County, a lifeguard administrative building collapsed at Point Maguy State Park after sustaining damage from the high surf.
On the East Coast, swells from Cristobal are keeping beach goers out of the water. Many Long Island beaches were closed to swimmers because of concern about rip currents.
To stay safe during your next beach outing, follow the following tips from the Red Cross and NOAA:
- Stick to designated swimming areas and obey all orders from life guards
- Never swim alone
- Keep an eye on little ones - waves can pose a risk even in shallow water
- If you get caught in a rip current, stay calm. Tread water or swim parallel to the shore until you are free
- If you see a swimmer in distress get help. Find a lifeguard or call 911
See the action for yourself by checking out the ABC7 Wave Cam live at Laguna Beach.
