Public Safety

Polo raises concern for Southern California surf and rip currents

Forecasters expect elevated surf and strong rip currents this weekend into next week as multiple southerly swells approach the coast.

Image credit: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers / public domain; archival 2014 Long Beach breakwater photo, not Hurricane Polo

The Los Angeles Times updated its Hurricane Polo report on September 23 as forecasters watched the storm off Mexico. The National Weather Service in Los Angeles said multiple southerly swells could bring elevated surf and strong rip currents this weekend into next week. Impacts in Southern California are expected to be much less severe than in Mexico. Beachgoers should check current local forecasts and swim near a lifeguard.

What it means locally

The Los Angeles National Weather Service office warned on September 23 of elevated surf and strong rip currents this weekend into next week. Forecasters said several southerly swells are involved, so not every beach will see the same conditions.

This is a forecast, not a report that Hurricane Polo has made landfall in California or that a particular beach is closed. Check the latest National Weather Service alerts and local lifeguard guidance before entering the water.

Full report and further details: Read original report →