The National Weather Service says a northwesterly swell will bring hazardous conditions to Santa Cruz County beaches through Wednesday, with an increased risk for sneaker waves and rip currents through Monday evening, and the potential for high surf midweek.

Waves could peak at 15 to 20 feet and run farther up the beach than normal, including over rocks and jetties. Swimming conditions could be hazardous.

A graphic from the National Weather Service explains beach hazards through October 22, 2025.
A map and graphic from the National Weather Service shows where a northwesterly swell will bring hazardous conditions to Santa Cruz County beaches through Oct. 22. Credit: National Weather Service

Forecasters predict warmer, drier weather with light to moderate offshore winds in the higher elevations on Tuesday, with slightly cooler conditions beginning midweek.

The longer range outlook shows a storm hitting the region Friday and lingering into the weekend. It could turn into the first atmospheric river of the season, but is likely to drench the North Bay more than Santa Cruz.

For more information on the latest forecast, visit the National Weather Service website.

Cecilia Schutz is a fourth-year anthropology and Spanish studies student at UC Santa Cruz. Originally from Portland, Oregon, she developed an interest in local news and community engagement over the course...