High Surf Pounds Local Beaches, Higher Waves Expected In Secondary Swell

High surf is pounding local beaches thanks to a Pineapple Express weather system.

At Jalama Beach Thursday, about half a dozen kite surfers braved the rough conditions.

While, most people are urged to stay out of the water, experienced kiteboarders live for these times.

Local resident and photographer Paul Dieckman has been out at Jalama for days snapping pictures of his buddies catching big waves.

“They are very good. They know what they are doing or they wouldn’t be here. They are used to kite boarding and extreme conditions,” Dieckman said.

The Santa Barbara County Fire Department said even the most experienced surfers and kiteboarders need to be cautious during this big swell.

Beachgoers from the Central Coast to Ventura County are being warned to stay out of the water.

“Stay out of the water. Except for those experienced surfers and even then you are out on your own when you are going out there,” said Mike Eliason of the Santa Barbara County Fire Department.

The department is trained and ready to help, just in case.

“We have our swift water rescue team available and ready to respond if necessary. We have crews at Storke, UCSB and Gaviota. We’re hoping we don’t have to use them,” Eliason said.

According to the National Weather Service, local sets up to 25 feet will be possible across west and northwest facing beaches during the peak of the storm event.

Large surf will continue through Saturday.