Rip Current — Northern Monterey Bay, California

2022-07-20 · Northern Monterey Bay, California

Event narrative

Long period southerly swell unmoored a boat offshore Capitola, per the Harbormaster, and the boat washed ashore at Capitola Beach. No injuries were reported. A nearby Scripps buoy, Station 46269 - Point Santa Cruz, reported wave heights 4-5 ft at 17s-18s on the morning of July 20.

Wider weather episode

A long period southerly swell (up to 20s) reached the CA coast on July 18th bringing an enhanced risk of strong rip currents and sneaker waves. The swell energy unmoored a boat in Monterey Bay at Capitola Harbor.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1055218. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.