Anyone planning to take a walk on the beach on Christmas should keep an eye on the surf, as a seasonal swell is forecast to hit Bay Area coastlines over the next couple of days.
The National Weather Service has issued a coastal hazards statement for Northern California beaches from Sonoma County to Monterey, which could experience sneaker waves and strong rip tides Wednesday through Friday afternoon.
A storm system near Alaska is responsible for delivering the strong waves, which are expected to break around 20 seconds apart starting on Christmas Day, according to the weather service.
Beachgoers were advised to stay of off rocks near the water and keep a safe distance from the tide.
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 along the coast.
