Higher Danger of Sneaker Waves S. Washington Coast Through S. Oregon Coast Sun - Tues

Published 12/08/24 at 3:15 p.m.

(Newport, Oregon) – The south Washington coast through to south Oregon coast are under slightly different beach hazards statements, issued from the National Weather Service (NWS). There is a fairly strong possibility of sneaker waves along both segments of the Pacific Northwest shoreline, with offshore waves in excess of 15 feet with very long periods between swells. (Above: Rockaway Beach / Oregon Coast Beach Connection)

There was also a dense fog advisory for the south coast, which expired today.

The NWS has declared the extra danger of sneaker waves in effect through late tonight (Sunday) on the south Washington coast and northern half of Oregon's coast (Clatsop, Tillamook, Lincoln and Lane counties). The southern Oregon coast has a different time period: dangers are increased Monday through Tuesday afternoon.

See  Oregon Coast Weather (including tides) - Inland Oregon Weather

These waves can dart up the beach much faster than others – and much farther. You'll encounter a much greater risk of being knocked off your feet and even dragged into surf.

“Don't make the beach your grave,” the NWS said. “Constantly watch the ocean for changes in wave patterns! Watch the ocean for at least 20 minutes. Study its wave patterns. Get a feel for the pattern of the waves before relaxing on the beach or engaging in recreational activities. Stay farther back from the ocean than you think is necessary.”

The beach hazard statement for all of Sunday is for Long Beach, Seaside, Cannon Beach, Manzanita, Oceanside, Rockaway Beach, Pacific City, Lincoln City, Newport and Yachats.

For the south coast, Monday and Sunday increase the risks for Coos Bay, Bandon, Gold Beach, Port Orford and Brookings.

Cape Sebastian / OPRD photo

“Sneaker waves can run up significantly farther on beaches than normal, including over rocks and jetties. These waves can suddenly knock people off of their feet and quickly pull them into the cold ocean waters, resulting in serious injury or death. Waves may also lift driftwood logs, trapping anyone caught underneath”.

Along the northern half, offshore waves hit 14 to 17 feet today, with 14 seconds between swells. That latter part means a lot of energy piling up on occasion, which brings in powerful sneaker waves.

On the south coast, swells are around 9 feet or just a bit higher tomorrow and Tuesday, with timing at 13 seconds.

Note: this won't translate to big wave displays at areas like Shore Acres or Cape Disappointment. It will only mean more dangerous beaches.

Cape Disappointment, Washington - courtesy Washington State Parks

There looks to be a lull in ocean conditions after Monday – and some amounts of sun mixed with the wilder weather.

“Active weather remains in theforecast for the end of the week, with gusty winds and steep seas possible over the weekend and beyond,” the NWS said. “King tides may also play a role in marine conditions over next weekend.”

Oregon Coast Hotels for this event - South Coast Hotels - Oregon Coast Vacation Rentals - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours

MORE PHOTOS BELOW

More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging.....

More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining.....

Andre' GW Hagestedt is editor, owner and primary photographer / videographer of Oregon Coast Beach Connection, an online publication that sees over 1 million pageviews per month. He is also author of several books about the coast.

LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles

Back to Oregon Coast

Contact Advertise on Oregon Coast Beach Connection
All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright © Oregon Coast Beach Connection. Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted