Community Corner
Beware 'Sneaker Waves' if Taking a Beach Stroll on Thanksgiving
Waves on Northern California beaches could reach as high as 10 feet on Thursday, the National Weather Service has warned.
By Bay City News
Anyone planning to take a walk on the beach on Thanksgiving should expect higher-than-normal surf, as a seasonal swell is forecast to hit Bay Area coastlines this week, a weather forecaster said today.
The National Weather Service has issued a "coastal hazard statement" for Northern California beaches from Sonoma County to Monterey, saying coastal spots could see waves as high as 10 feet, occasional "sneaker waves" and strong rip tides on Thursday, forecaster Christine Riley said.
"It affects all of coastal Northern California," Riley said.
"Especially west-facing beaches will see the biggest swells."
Strong winds developing over the Pacific Ocean off of Northern California are causing the swell, she said.
The hazard statement -- which is less serious than a high-surf warning or advisory -- was issued to make the public aware of unusual and potentially dangerous conditions.
"We just wanted to give the public a heads-up that there's a higher likelihood of sneaker waves and rip tides on Thanksgiving Day," she said.
Copyright © 2013 by Bay City News, Inc. -- Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited.
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