Massive waves hit California, destroying and flooding the coast, on Saturday the 29th. Storms and cyclones in the Pacific Ocean are making big waves, reaching 40 feet. Other waves measure up to generally 28 to 33 feet. Some California residents claim that these waves are the largest they’ve seen in 40 years! Surfers are in “delight,” but others are being sent to the hospital from these dangerous waves.  All beaches were closed. An evacuation warning was issued for some residents living around the Pacific Coastal Highway. 

First responders reported that at least 10 people were severely injured. “It was terrifying and apocalyptic,” said Colin Hoag to CNN broadcaster. Hoag captured many people scrambling to escape as a wave crashed into the coast barrier. Twenty people were unfortunately swept into the wave that slammed into one of the beach’s barriers. This occurred in Ventura Beach’s Pierpont area.

California experienced a lot of rain and wind. At higher elevations, at least a foot of snow was reported. Frequent flooding limits the resilience of our Coast. Therefore, the more powerful storms California experiences, the harder it will be to prevent damage and impacts. California residents are struggling to bounce back from this horrific storm. The waves are starting to calm down, but there is no clear answer as to when the waves will be back to normal. Individuals should support and help California during this time.