URGENT UPDATE: A woman was violently knocked off her feet by a massive wave near the Pacifica Municipal Pier on Thursday, July 13, 2023, as the Bay Area faces perilous conditions due to king tides and towering waves reaching heights of 14 to 25 feet. Eyewitness video, submitted by a viewer to KRON4, captures the moment the woman was struck, highlighting the extreme danger posed by the ocean during this weather event.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a stern warning for the public to avoid all jetties, piers, and waterside areas from Thursday through Saturday morning. The agency cautions that the risk of sneaker waves is particularly high this week, with these unpredictable waves capable of sweeping unsuspecting beachgoers into the ocean.
The NWS defines sneaker waves as “potentially deadly waves that surge further up the beach than expected, overtaking the unaware.” While it remains unconfirmed if the wave that hit the woman was indeed a sneaker wave, officials stress the importance of vigilance when near the ocean. “Never turn your back on the ocean,” the NWS advises, emphasizing the sudden and powerful nature of these waves.
Authorities report that sneaker waves can carry a dangerous mix of sand, water, and debris, making survival difficult. Survivors have described the sensation of being caught in this water-sand mix as akin to being weighed down by concrete, severely limiting their ability to escape the receding tide. The NWS warns that large logs and debris near the surf line can also pose significant threats, as sneaker waves can lift and roll these heavy objects, leading to serious injuries or fatalities.
As the Bay Area grapples with these hazardous beach conditions, officials urge everyone to heed warnings and maintain a safe distance from the surf. This situation remains fluid, and further updates from the NWS will be crucial for anyone planning to visit coastal areas in the coming days.
Stay tuned for more developments on this story as the situation evolves. Your safety is paramount during this turbulent weather event.
