- Sneaker waves crashed into beachgoers in Barview on Sunday morning, injuring several individuals who were subsequently taken to the hospital.
- The National Weather Service issued a hazard message on Sunday warning of breaking waves between 28 and 33 feet on the central coast, with a high surf warning in effect until 10 p.m.
- King tides are expected around Depoe Bay from November 23 to 27, bringing larger than normal waves back to the area later this month.
- The National Weather Service cautioned that people should avoid large logs, jetties, rocks, and logs near the surf zone while high surf warnings are in effect.
Dangerous sneaker waves along the Oregon coast injured several beachgoers on Sunday, leading to hospitalizations. Eyewitnesses reported the incidents occurring around 11 a.m. at Barview, where waves surged unexpectedly, causing chaos among visitors.12
The National Weather Service warned of ocean swells reaching 28 to 33 feet, with conditions expected to remain hazardous through Sunday evening. The agency cautioned that destructive waves could wash over beaches and jetties without warning, posing significant risks to those nearby.3467
“Higher than normal water run-up is expected on beaches and low-lying shoreline,” the NWS stated in a release. Officials advised beachgoers to stay clear of large logs and jetties, as sneaker waves can roll them onto unsuspecting individuals, potentially leading to severe injuries or fatalities.
The high surf warning is in effect until 10 p.m. Sunday, with larger waves anticipated later this month due to upcoming king tides. These tides, expected from Nov. 23 through Nov. 27, will bring even more significant swells to the coastline, according to Depoe Bay tourism officials.5
For those wishing to observe the waves safely, the Depoe Bay Seawall and other scenic viewpoints are recommended, while authorities emphasize the importance of dialing 911 if someone is swept away by the surf.
“The sneaker wave incident in Barview occurred around 11 a.m. Sunday, sending injured people to the hospital. Officials advise avoiding jetties, rocks, and logs near the surf zone, and call 911 if someone is swept away, as king tides return Nov. 23-27.”
OregonLive.com
