Iconic California pier to close as monster tides threaten coast

Pismo Beach Pier will close from midnight on Saturday until 5 a.m. on Sunday as dangerously large waves are expected along California’s Central Coast. The temporary closure comes amid official surf and coastal flood warnings, with the city monitoring conditions and prepared to close beaches if needed.

Forecasts warn of breaking waves 10 to 15 feet high and dangerous rip currents, with waves of 18 to 25 feet possible under the high surf warning. Coastal flood warnings run from 3 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, and further swells could bring flooding to low-lying areas into next week. Beach camping at Oceano Dunes has been cancelled through Monday, while the pier closure coincides with Pismo Beach’s annual marching band review.