Northern California braces for 60-foot waves. NWS warns beachgoers to stay away, coastal evacuations and closures begin

The National Weather Service issued an urgent warning Saturday after an offshore buoy recorded 32-foot waves with a 21-second interval between crests. Forecasters warned that exposed Northern California beaches could see breaking waves above 40 feet, with occasional sets exceeding 60 feet. The forecast called for 25-to-35-foot surf across much of the Bay Area, with 40-to-50-foot waves possible at Mavericks. Officials urged people to stay off beaches, rocks and seawalls.

BREAKING: Massive waves reaching up to 60 FEET are threatening parts of the California coastline as forecasters issue urgent warnings for beachgoers. pic.twitter.com/UbztmuHLMX
— Daily Loud (@DailyLoud) November 14, 2026

Santa Cruz closed its beaches and wharf, while evacuation warnings went out for low-lying coastal neighborhoods in Santa Cruz County. A woman was swept away at Panther Beach last weekend and remains missing. The same Pacific storm system is bringing heavy rain, flooding concerns and dangerous surf farther south. Another large swell is forecast to arrive Sunday night into Monday.

🚨🇺🇸 WARNING: Waves could reach 60 FEET on exposed Northern California beaches today
The National Weather Service recorded 32-foot waves and urged people to stay off the coast.
Some waves could exceed 40 feet, with even higher sets in certain areas.
Officials warn that no… pic.twitter.com/nlLAMGZR64
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) November 14, 2026