High surf, hazardous conditions continue at Ventura coast

VENTURA, Calif. (KABC) -- A high surf advisory is continuing for Ventura and other coastal areas on Saturday as crashing waves and high tides remain strong, causing hazardous conditions.

The Ventura Pier remained closed due to damage from the high surf on Friday morning.

People were evacuated from the Ventura Pier around 7 a.m. after patrol officers responded to reports of waves slamming and causing damage to the structure, according to Ventura police.

The pier was closed to the public around 7:10 a.m. and is expected to remain shut down until repairs are completed, Ventura city officials said.

The pier sustained structural damage including four wooden piles, cross-bracings and handrails that were destroyed.

High tides for Saturday and Sunday mornings were expected to bring continued powerful waves from off-shore storms, and the public was advised to avoid entering the ocean during these times, especially near the pier and debris.

While the pier itself is shut down, restaurants at the base of it are still open for business.