Graduation celebrations are not the only thing in the forecast for the South Coast over the weekend.
Southern Santa Barbara County beaches could see dangerous rip currents, waves up to 6 feet tall and high tides of 8 feet, the National Weather Service warned. The beach hazards statement is in effect from Saturday morning to Monday evening.
“There is an increased risk of ocean drowning. Rip currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea,” according to the National Weather Service. “Minor coastal flooding is possible in low-lying areas near the times of high tides.”
While a warm weekend is in the forecast, the NWS also advises people to not go into the ocean, or to stay close to lifeguard towers, due to “hazardous swimming conditions.”
Forecaster David Gomberg said the swells are coming from the south and there is a presence of tropical systems.
“It is not that the surf is going to be gigantic, especially in the main part of Santa Barbara, but anytime you get a swell from the south, it tends to generate more rip currency activity, that is the concern,” he said.
He also said there is a chance the beach hazard statement is extended through the middle of next week.
