A beach hazards statement was issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) on Sunday morning, affecting residents and beachgoers across Ventura County, Los Angeles County beaches, and Malibu. The advisory, which the San Gabriel Valley Tribune reported was released at 10:29 a.m. on Sunday, is in effect from noon that day until Monday, November 2, at 6 p.m.
The National Weather Service Los Angeles/Oxnard CA warned of "dangerous rip currents and breaking waves due to elevated surf expected," along with minor tidal overflow during high tides. This means anyone heading to the coast during this period should exercise significant caution, as conditions could be more hazardous than usual.
The NWS highlighted several potential dangers for those near the water. There is an increased risk of ocean drowning, with rip currents capable of pulling swimmers and surfers away from shore. Waves themselves can be powerful enough to wash people off beaches and rocks, and even capsize smaller boats operating close to the shore. For those not directly in the water, minor flood impacts are possible; this could mean water flowing over areas of normally dry sand and reaching lower parking lots or paths. Additionally, moderate beach erosion is a possibility during this time.
Given these conditions, the NWS advises people to remain out of the water entirely due to the hazardous swimming conditions. For those who must be in the water, staying near occupied lifeguard towers is recommended. A particular warning was issued regarding rock jetties, which the NWS noted can be deadly in such conditions, urging the public to stay off them.
Looking ahead, the NWS also indicated that additional flood impacts are likely into next weekend. Tides are expected to reach heights of 7 feet as early as Friday, peaking over that weekend and into early the following week with levels between 7.0 and 7.8 feet. Elevated surf during this period could further increase flood impacts, particularly affecting west to northwest-facing beaches. The NWS also noted that the mentioned tide levels have been corrected to reflect the most recent actual tide observations.
Residents and visitors planning to spend time along the Ventura and Los Angeles county coastlines, including Malibu, should keep these warnings in mind and prioritize safety when near the ocean for the rest of the day and through Monday evening.
