Rip Current — San Francisco Peninsula Coast, California

2020-01-02 · San Francisco Peninsula Coast, California

Event narrative

A woman was at Cowell Ranch State Beach on January 2nd with her family and dog when her dog was caught in the waves. The woman went after her dog and was then swept out to see. The dog was able to get back to shore on her own and the woman was rescued and brought back to shore https://www.hmbreview.com/news/woman-dog-safe-after-being-swept-to-sea/article_3956e254-2dac-11ea-94b1-df6a9d23a902.html.

Wider weather episode

A long period northwest swell moved through the region in early January bringing high surf to area beaches. Swell heights were observed at around 15 ft with periods of 18 to 19 seconds. Breaking wave heights were forecast at around 20 to at least 25 feet at favored locations. Strong surf ended up snapping two pilings at the Capitola Wharf prompting the closing of the wharf for repairs. Additionally, multiple water rescues were performed up and down the coast.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 867586. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.