Just in time for the official first day of winter, a storm is expected to bring rain, winds and a large ocean swell to Monterey County and the surrounding region starting on Friday night, Dec. 20. The "soggy pattern," as the National Weather Service describes it, is expected to last through Christmas week, "as a parade of storms move through the Pacific."
Wind speeds of 25-35mph on Saturday morning, Dec. 21, could be enough to do more damage after last week's high winds.
In the ocean, wave heights of 10 to 15 feet are expected in the next couple of days, with larger waves with heights of 15 to 20 feet coming starting on Monday, Dec. 23, through Wednesday. Larger breaking waves may hit beaches that face directly west. A high surf advisory takes effect Saturday morning.
California State Parks announced they may temporarily close some state beaches due to high surf in the coming days as a public safety measure.
The advisory means people should use extra caution near the ocean and be aware of the potential for "sneaker waves," or unexpectedly large crashing waves. Officials advise people to avoid walking on wet areas, indicating wave action may return, and to know your limits when entering and exiting the water for recreation.
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