High surf warning in effect for coastlines throughout Tri-Counties area

As the Central and South coasts continues to endure this week’s rainstorm, the National Weather Service has issued a high surf warning for San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura counties.

Starting at 10 a.m. Thursday, the warning went into effect.

It warns visitors to the ocean to be cautious about potentially dangerous conditions.

Fueled by high winds, waves may reach as high as 24 feet. The surf is projected to lower to 10-15 feet by Friday afternoon.

With significant rainfall in the forecast, minor coastal flooding could occur in low-lying areas, along with coastal erosion during times of high tide.

Along with high surf, there is an increased risk of drowning due to potentially deadly rip currents.

Matthew Aston, Chief Harbor Patrol Officer at Port San Luis said Thursday morning people who visit the ocean need to be aware of the dangers.

“(Sightsee) from a safe distance,” said Aston. “The ocean has a lot of power behind it. These big swells has a lot of energy behind it. It could pick up rocks, dirt and debris and if you are too close you’re going to get hit by that stuff.”

After a couple of hours of sunshine Thursday morning, the clouds rolled back into the coast once again, creating an angry ocean that drew many visitors.

“It’s amazing,” said Mike Masters, while watching the waves in Shell Beach. “I’ve never seen this high before. Just a few seconds ago it was sunny, but now it’s really cloudy and dark.”

“It’s really high,” said Dany Rem of Long Beach, who was visiting Shell Beach. “It’s higher than usual. We come out here often. It’s beautiful, but it’s really dramatic and it’s really windy. It’s a sight to be seen definitely.”

The National Weather Service will keep the high surf warning in effect through 10 a.m. Friday.