Watch CBS News

Large Swells, 'Sneaker Waves' Reported Off Northern California Coast

SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS)— The National Weather Service posted a high-surf advisory for Northern California between Monterey and the Sonoma Coast on Monday because of large swells and so-called "sneaker waves."

The waves may be beautiful, but they can also be treacherous. Ocean Beach in San Francisco was absolutely gorgeous Monday morning, but looks can be deceiving.

High-Surf Advisory In Effect, Look Out For Large Swells, 'Sneaker Waves'

Large waves came crashing in with greater succession onto dry sand. One dog walker used caution at the beach. She noticed a large drop in the number of surfers. Whereas there are usually about 30, she only noticed one on her daily walk.

Mary Isbuth, a tourist, was appreciative for the warning.

"They sure look scary. Look at that one! We were just wondering about that. Yeah these are looking kinda scary," she said.

Steve Anderson with the National Weather Service said sneaker waves happen every so often in Northern California and that the sneaker waves have the potential to carry the unaware out to sea.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.