Morning Lookout: July 31, 2026

Good morning, it’s Friday, July 31. Today’s forecast from the National Weather Service calls for sunny skies across the region, with coastal areas expecting highs near 82 degrees and inland mountains reaching highs in the mid-70s to upper 80s.

In a follow-up to the viral Seabright Beach rescue, Caly Luna Plowman spoke with the father of the 10-year-old boy pulled from dangerous surf, who says he’s still shaken by how close he came to losing his son. He shares his gratitude for 16-year-old lifeguard Ryder Williams and the trauma his family is working through.

Also, following the recent wave of area rescues and continued dangerous surf conditions, writer Sloane Birnbaum highlights essential beach safety lessons from local experts. They include a veteran surfer and a city lifeguard, who offer tips on things such as how to spot rip currents, handle unpredictable swells, and stay safe in local waters.

A story from our partners at CalMatters unpacks common insurance myths amid soaring premiums and coverage issues, exploring the impact on renters, homeowners, and housing availability. Get a critical look at how the state’s insurance market is shifting ahead of November’s crucial insurance commissioner election.

And now to the headlines…

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Father of boy rescued at Seabright: ‘We’re so grateful’ to teen lifeguard who saved his son

Sumit Rai, the father of Nathaniel Rai, the 10-year-old boy from Texas who nearly drowned this weekend at Seabright Beach amongst rough ocean conditions, said he’s been trying to reach out to Ryder Williams, the lifeguard who saved his son, so he can thank him personally. Rai said Williams should get every honor and medal possible for his bravery.

After a wave of rescues, Santa Cruz experts share the beach safety lessons everyone should know

Recent rescues and dangerous surf are reminders that even experienced beachgoers can get caught off guard. A local lifeguard and longtime surfer share practical advice on spotting hazards, avoiding rip currents and staying safe in Santa Cruz’s unpredictable waters.