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Nearly 2,000 ocean rescues occur as dangerous surf slams popular beaches this summer
Southern California beaches have seen dangerous surf and rip currents linked to El Niño swells, prompting Los Angeles County lifeguards to carry out nearly 2,000 ocean rescues this summer. The figures underline how quickly apparently shallow, calm-looking water can become hazardous, particularly for children and inexperienced swimmers.
One recent incident involved a 10-year-old boy at Seabright State Beach in Santa Cruz, who was pulled into the sea after losing his footing in ankle-deep water. Sixteen-year-old California State Parks lifeguard Ryder Williams radioed for assistance and entered the water to rescue him during the 25 July emergency.
In short
- Dangerous surf has driven nearly 2,000 rescues in Los Angeles County.
- El Niño swells and rip currents pose serious beach risks.
- A teenage lifeguard rescued a boy in Santa Cruz.
Explained simply
Rip currents are narrow, powerful flows of water that move away from the shore. They can form in breaking waves and carry swimmers into deeper water, even when the sea near the beach looks calm or shallow.
El Niño is a climate pattern that can alter weather and ocean conditions across the Pacific, including the size and timing of swells reaching California. Lifeguards watch for changing surf and currents, while beachgoers may not be able to see these hazards from the shore.
Los Angeles County lifeguards patrol busy beaches and respond when swimmers get into difficulty. The risks are especially relevant for children and people who are not confident swimmers, who may be caught off guard by waves or currents close to shore.