Woman Struck by Towering Wave Amid Bay Area King Tides

URGENT UPDATE: A woman was knocked to the ground by a massive wave at the Pacifica Municipal Pier in the Bay Area on Thursday, October 26, 2023, as the region faces perilous king tides generating 14 to 25-foot breakers. Eyewitness video captured the alarming moment, highlighting the severe dangers posed by the relentless surf.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a stern warning for coastal safety, urging the public to avoid jetties, piers, and any waterside structures through Saturday morning. The NWS cautions that the combination of king tides and sneaker waves creates hazardous conditions that can easily catch beachgoers off guard.

Sneaker waves, defined by the NWS as “potentially deadly waves that surge further up the beach than expected,” pose a significant risk this week. They can hit unexpectedly, overtaking those who are unaware and potentially leading to life-threatening situations. The NWS emphasizes, “Never turn your back on the ocean.”

Witnesses reported that the woman struck by the wave was quickly overwhelmed by the force of the water, which can carry a dangerous mix of sand, water, and gravel. The NWS warns that survivors of similar incidents have described feeling as if they were wearing clothing made of concrete due to the weight of the water-sand mixture. This can render individuals incapable of escaping the powerful pull of receding waves.

In addition to the warning about sneaker waves, the NWS advises beachgoers to stay clear of large logs and debris that can become dangerous projectiles during high surf. “People have been injured and even crushed by being caught under these logs from sneaker wave action,” the NWS cautions.

As conditions are expected to remain hazardous through the weekend, authorities are urging everyone to exercise extreme caution and stay informed about the latest forecasts. The potential for additional incidents increases as the coastal waves continue to surge.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.