South Swell Headed for San Diego Beaches

Surfers can rejoice as wave height can reach up to 9 ft.

Surf’s up San Diego—a high surf advisory is in effect for the next few days, bringing in big waves for boarders.

The National Weather Service issued a statement warning people that San Diego County beaches will have a large swell coming in during the early evening on Wednesday, lasting through Friday night. NOAA is crediting the swell from a powerful storm that originated near New Zealand.

Surf height is expected to reach as high as 7 to 9 ft., with Thursday having the most powerful waves. Strong rip currents are expected to last until Sunday.

San Diego Lifeguards are gearing up for the swell with a busy Labor Day weekend. The combination of the holiday and promised waves mean lifeguards will be on high alert, said Lifeguard Lt. Andy Lerum.

“We have a large surf action plan, and each station strategies,” he said.

The additional summer staff on board is helpful, as seasonal staff works until Labor Day.

“If it were hitting a month later we would be scrambling,” Lerum said. “We should be well prepared. The combination of sunny skies and big surf means it will be a busy weekend.”

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