Beachgoers along the San Francisco coastline have been urged to exercise extreme caution over the Labor Day weekend, with a Beach Hazards Statement in force until 11pm on Monday, September 7.
The National Weather Service warned of an increased risk of sneaker waves, strong rip currents and breaking waves reaching around 10ft along Pacific Coast beaches.
The alert covers beaches from the Sonoma and Marin coast through San Francisco and down to Monterey Bay and Big Sur. Forecasters said two long-period southerly swells, generated by distant hurricanes Marie and Karina, were contributing to the dangerous conditions.
Officials advised people to remain out of the water and stay away from jetties, piers, rocks and other structures close to the shoreline. They also warned visitors never to turn their backs on the ocean, as unexpectedly large waves can travel much further up the beach than anticipated.
The hazardous conditions were expected to persist through Monday evening, with beach users encouraged to monitor local weather, surf and tide forecasts before approaching the coast.
