SANTA CRUZ — Due to predicted high swell and severe weather, the city of Santa Cruz will close the Santa Cruz Wharf and multiple beaches Friday with a tentative plan to reopen coastal areas Saturday.
“The city of Santa Cruz is implementing a coastal infrastructure closure, including the Wharf, due to dangerously high surf and severe storm impacts,” said Santa Cruz City Manager Matt Huffaker in a statement. “With life-threatening waves, coastal flooding and high winds expected, we are taking proactive steps to protect public safety and critical infrastructure.”
According to the statement from the city, the decision is based on extreme weather forecasts from the National Weather Service, which has issued a high surf warning from 3 p.m. Thursday until early Saturday morning.
Forecasts indicate strong currents and dangerous surf with waves predicted to reach peak heights of 30 to 45 feet, with potential for coastal flooding and erosion along beaches, cliffs and low-lying areas. High winds may lead to downed trees and power lines, as well as other hazardous conditions.
“Closing the Santa Cruz Wharf on Friday, February 14, is a necessary decision based on National Weather Service forecasts,” Huffaker added. “We recognize the economic impact these increasing storms have on our community and remain committed to working with businesses and residents as we navigate these challenges together. Our top priority is ensuring public safety and resilience in the face of our changing coastal reality.”
Infrastructure along the city coastline will be restricted, including areas of West Cliff Drive. Beaches within city limits will be closed including Main Beach, Cowell Beach, Mitchell’s Cove, Natural Bridges State Beach, San Lorenzo Park Benchlands area, Seabright State Beach, Twin Lakes State Beach and Its Beach. Signage will be posted outside of the areas warning community members about the high surf and storm hazards.
The statement from the city stresses that storm surges, flooding and erosion can cause significant damage, which makes proactive closures necessary, and that life-threatening waves and storm conditions pose a severe risk to public safety and infrastructure. Emergency personnel will be monitoring conditions and residents should prepare for possible power outages and a hazardous travel environment.
For updates and information, visit cityofsantacruz.com.
