Southern California, December 23, 2025
A high surf advisory is currently in effect for Southern California beaches from December 23 to December 27. The National Weather Service warns of large waves and dangerous rip currents, urging caution for both residents and visitors. Key areas affected include Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Ventura, and Los Angeles counties. The advisory also highlights potential coastal flooding and emphasizes safety measures for beachgoers. It coincides with a high wind warning, further elevating risks along the coast.
High Surf Advisory Alerts Southern California Beaches
Los Angeles, CA — A high surf advisory is currently in effect for Southern California beaches from Tuesday, December 23, through Saturday, December 27, 2025. The National Weather Service (NWS) has indicated that large breaking waves and perilous rip currents are expected along the coast during this timeframe, urging both residents and visitors to stay informed and exercise caution.
Key Advisory Details
This advisory impacts several popular coastal areas:
- Santa Barbara County Southwestern and Southeastern Coasts: Forecasted wave heights of 6 to 9 feet accompanied by dangerous rip currents.
- San Luis Obispo County Beaches: Anticipated waves reaching 10 to 15 feet, posing significant risks due to surf conditions.
- Ventura County Beaches and Malibu Coast: Expecting large breaking waves of 6 to 10 feet along with hazardous rip currents.
- Los Angeles County Beaches: Wave heights of 8 to 12 feet are predicted, creating perilous conditions for beachgoers.
Potential Impacts of High Surf
The advisory signals important hazards residents and visitors should be aware of:
- Coastal Flooding: Minor to isolated moderate coastal flooding is possible, particularly during high tides, as strong southerly winds exert their influence.
- Rip Currents: The risk of dangerous rip currents can significantly increase the chances of ocean drowning, making it critical to remain vigilant.
- Beach Erosion: Large waves may lead to injuries, wash individuals off beaches or rocks, and even capsizing small boats in nearshore areas.
Safety Guidelines During the Advisory
To ensure safety, the NWS recommends the following:
- Avoiding the Water: It is advisable for individuals to stay out of the ocean due to the hazardous surf conditions or remain close to occupied lifeguard towers.
- Staying Clear of Rocks: During such conditions, rock jetties can be especially dangerous; it’s critical to avoid these areas.
- Monitoring Local Conditions: Keeping abreast of local weather forecasts and adhering to any further advisories or warnings is highly recommended.
Background Information on High Surf Advisories
High surf advisories are enacted by the NWS when significant wave heights and dangerous coastal conditions are forecasted. These advisories aim to educate the public about potential dangers and encourage proactive safety measures. The current advisory stems from anticipated wave activity and the possibility of coastal flooding and rip currents along the coast.
Related Weather Conditions
Alongside the high surf advisory, a high wind warning is also active from Tuesday, December 23, through Thursday, December 25, 2025. South to southeast winds ranging from 30 to 50 mph, with gusts reaching up to 70 mph, are expected, mainly elevating risks for downed trees and power outages. These wind conditions may also result in challenging travel, particularly for high-profile vehicles.
Conclusion: Staying Informed and Safe
Residents and visitors to Southern California should exercise utmost caution during the ongoing high surf advisory from December 23 to December 27, 2025. By following safety recommendations and staying informed through local weather updates, individuals can better navigate the potential risks that come with these hazardous ocean conditions.
FAQ
What areas are affected by the high surf advisory?
The advisory affects the following areas:
- Santa Barbara County Southwestern and Southeastern Coasts
- San Luis Obispo County Beaches
- Ventura County Beaches and Malibu Coast
- Los Angeles County Beaches
What are the expected wave heights during the advisory?
Expected wave heights vary by location:
- Santa Barbara County Southwestern and Southeastern Coasts: 6 to 9 feet
- San Luis Obispo County Beaches: 10 to 15 feet
- Ventura County Beaches and Malibu Coast: 6 to 10 feet
- Los Angeles County Beaches: 8 to 12 feet
What safety measures should be taken during this advisory?
Residents and visitors should:
- Avoid entering the water due to dangerous surf conditions.
- Stay away from rocks and jetties, as they can be hazardous during high surf.
- Monitor local weather reports for updates and heed any additional advisories or warnings issued by local authorities.
Are there any other weather warnings in effect?
Yes, a high wind warning is also in effect from December 23 to December 25, 2025, with south to southeast winds of 30 to 50 mph and gusts up to 70 mph expected. These conditions may lead to downed trees, power outages, and difficult travel, especially for high-profile vehicles.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| High Surf Advisory Period | December 23 to December 27, 2025 |
| Affected Areas | Santa Barbara County, San Luis Obispo County, Ventura County, Los Angeles County |
| Expected Wave Heights | 6 to 15 feet, varying by location |
| Safety Recommendations | Avoid water, stay away from rocks, monitor local weather reports |
| Additional Weather Warning | High wind warning from December 23 to December 25, 2025 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Beach Hazards Statement Issued for Southern California Beaches
Lawmakers Demand Accountability Following Multiple Deaths in ICE Custody
High Surf Advisory Hits Malibu and Los Angeles County Beaches
CHP Pursuit Ends with Suspect in Custody Amid Wet Weather
Storm Amy Causes Fatality and Widespread Disruption Across Ireland and Scotland
Flood Advisory Issued for Los Angeles County
Fishing Success and Conservation Efforts in the Adirondacks
Blissfield Community Schools Cancel Classes Over Mold Concerns
New Golf Course Planned at Cardon Adventure Resort
Author: STAFF HERE LOS ANGELES WRITER
The LOS ANGELES STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELosAngeles.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, and beyond, specializing in "news you can use" with coverage of product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates, while delivering top reporting on high-value events like the Academy Awards, LA Auto Show, and Los Angeles Marathon, extending coverage to key organizations such as the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, plus leading businesses in entertainment and technology like Warner Bros. and SpaceX, and as part of the broader HERE network including HEREAnaheim.com , HERECostaMesa.com , HEREHuntingtonBeach.com , and HERESantaAna.com , providing comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape. HERE Anaheim HERE Beverly Hills HERE Coronado HERE Costa Mesa HERE Hollywood HERE Huntington Beach HERE Long Beach HERE Los Angeles HERE Mission Viejo HERE San Diego HERE Santa Ana
