Parts of the Oregon coast could see 20-foot waves after November king tides
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – After king tides slammed the Oregon Coast last week, officials are warning about continued surf dangers.
The National Weather Service issued a high surf advisory just after 3 a.m. Monday through 4 p.m. on the south-central Oregon coast, expecting large breaking waves of 20 feet on the shorelines of Douglas, Coos, and Curry counties.
“Large breaking waves will create hazardous conditions along and within the surf zone, and could inundate beaches and low lying shorelines. Beach erosion is possible, and exposed infrastructure may be damaged,” the NWS advisory said.
“Another very strong storm will bring storm force south winds Tuesday into Wednesday. This is likely to bring another round of very high surf, especially to south-facing beaches and ports, like Port Orford and Brookings,” NWS added.
On Sunday, Cannon Beach Rural Fire Protection District warned community members about the high surf advisory, stating lifeguards will be posted at the Gower and Tolovana beach access through Monday and are advising everyone to stay off the beaches and jetties on the coast.
The fire district said 20-foot waves are expected Monday, with 20-25-foot waves expected Wednesday.
“While king tide technically ends Monday, we still have high surf advisory creating the potential for hazardous conditions,” Cannon Beach Rural Fire Protection District said. “While king tides can create stunning visual displays, they also transform the coastal environment into a hazardous zone.”
King tides can cause large, unpredictable waves and surges that can carry strong swimmers or surfers away from the shore and can carry debris such as rocks and logs, officials said, noting driftwood carried by the waves can become waterlogged and weigh hundreds of pounds.
The high surf advisory comes as the coast is expected be soggy Tuesday night through Wednesday amid a bomb cyclone, according to KOIN 6 News Meteorologist Kelley Bayern. The fall storm will bring heavy rain, flooding, and strong winds on the coast.
"Even after a weekend with king tides along the Oregon beaches, the coastline will still feel impacts on Monday with the possibility of sneaker waves. Beachgoers should use extra caution on the sand as these strong waves can often sneak up further onshore than normal," Bayern explained. "Then, another round of impactful weather comes Tuesday and Wednesday as a strong storm, or bomb cyclone, veers by the coastline. This storm will pack a punch, bringing in hazardous seas and strong waves for boaters, potentially damaging winds to the coastline, and the possibility of flooding for coastal communities."