High Surf — San Francisco Peninsula Coast, California

2010-02-13 · San Francisco Peninsula Coast, California

Event narrative

The Mavericks Big Wave Surf Contest is an annual event that occurs during the winter time when significantly high surf is happening under a partly cloudy to sunny sky. During the event a set of sneaker waves washed onto the shore were numerous spectators were enjoying the contest. When the sneaker waves inundated the previously dry spectator area they knocked at least 40 off their feet and injured at least 13. The most serious injuries were broken bones. Three people were taken to the hospital while many were treated for hyperthermia. Also damaged in the inundation were video and audio equipment used during the contest.

Wider weather episode

A strong Pacific storm brought large waves to the California coast.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 216578. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.