The National Weather Service is advising people to practice extreme caution through next week as sneaker waves, rip currents and high surf are likely on Santa Cruz beaches, as well as all Pacific Coast beaches.
Weather
With atmospheric river soaking region, Santa Cruz County under wind and flood advisory through Thursday afternoon
An atmospheric river drenching much of California since Wednesday night had dropped several inches of rain and brought gusty winds and minor urban flooding to parts of Santa Cruz County as of Thursday afternoon.
Atmospheric river approaches Santa Cruz County, wider Bay Area
An atmospheric river is set to bring heavy rain, strong winds and possible thunderstorms to Santa Cruz County and the wider Bay Area from Wednesday night through Friday. Forecasters warn of minor flooding and coastal hazards with waves up to 20 feet, and urge caution for swimmers and travelers.
Changing tides in Santa Cruz water management seek to support fish populations in the San Lorenzo
Salmon and trout populations in Santa Cruz’s watersheds, such as the San Lorenzo River, have taken a hit in recent decades. Now, officials at the city’s water department hope that retooling water regulations will help reestablish fish — and build sustainability in Santa Cruz’s water systems.
Hazardous beach conditions, high tides and more rain in forecast for Santa Cruz County
Long-period swells, high tides and an incoming storm system could mean an eventful weather week around Santa Cruz County.
High surf brings hazardous conditions to Santa Cruz County beaches through Wednesday
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.
Storm dumps nearly 3 inches of rain in parts of Santa Cruz County; tornado investigation underway
A gauge in Ben Lomond measured the highest reading of rainfall in the entire Bay Area on Monday as the brunt of the rainfall begins to shift away on Tuesday. The National Weather Service is investigating a possible tornado that occurred Monday evening in Pescadero, north of Santa Cruz County.
Flood advisories lifted for Santa Cruz County
The National Weather Service lifted a flood advisory for Santa Cruz County as rain showers tapered off Monday night.
Multi-day weather system to bring season’s first major rain to region
The first significant rainfall is rolling into Santa Cruz County, with the brunt of it making landfall later Monday and lasting through late Wednesday. However, serious impacts are not expected.
Atmospheric rivers might be diminishing on the West Coast and surging in the East, study finds
Over a 20-year period, atmospheric rivers could double the amount of rain falling on part of the Southeast, the researchers found.

