Beach Hazards Statement Issued For Belmont Shore

BELMONT SHORE, CA – The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a Beach Hazards Statement Monday for Belmont Shore and all Los Angeles County beaches, which remains in effect through late Monday night. Surf of 3 to 5 feet is expected, with local sets up to 6 feet through tonight – the highest surf is expected on exposed south facing beaches.

The maximum high tides will be around 6.5 feet between 10 p.m. to 11 p.m. tonight. There's a high risk of strong rip currents during this time, and elevated surf may persist through Tuesday afternoon, NWS said. Minor coastal flooding is expected during the evening high tide, and is possible in low-lying coastal areas like beach parking lots and harbor walkways.

"Dangerous rip currents are likely, especially on beaches exposed to the elevated surf," NWS said.

A Beach Hazards Statement is issued when threats such as rip currents, longshore currents, sneaker waves and other hazards create life-threatening conditions in the surf zone, NWS said. Officials suggest swimming near a lifeguard, and if swimmers get caught in a rip current, relax and float – don't swim against the current. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help, NWS said.

No significant damage is expected, officials said.

City News Service contributed to this post; Photo courtesy of Maria Cormack-Pitts/Patch