Sizable Sneaker Wave Threats on Oregon / Washington Coast This Weekend, Says NWS

Published 03/08/25 at 6:15 p.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Newport, Oregon) – Probably among the last of such winter ocean tantrums for the year, much of the Oregon coast and south Washington coast are under a threat of rather harsh sneaker waves this weekend. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a statement saying 10 to 12-foot westerly swells along with other factors mean a greatly increased chance of sudden and dangerous waves, a set of conditions going through late Sunday.

The beach hazards statement is in effect for the upper half of the coastline, including the towns of Florence, Yachats, Newport, Lincoln City, Pacific City, Manzanita, Seaside and Cannon Beach. It's also relevant to the south Washington coast, including Long Beach and Raymond.

“Waves will run up farther on beaches and could sweep people off their feet and into the ocean,” the NWS said. Avoid climbing on rocks, jetties, or logs and never turn your back on the ocean.”

The NWS also said that clammers should beware: this time of year is popular for the beach activity and these sudden bursts of oceanic energy will make them especially vulnerable.

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“Keep children and pets away from the surf zone,” the NWS said. “Keep off of jetties, rocks and logs near the surf zone. If you see someone swept into the sea do not swim in after them. Call 911 and keep an eye on them until help arrives.”

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What's behind all this?

Long periods between swells combined with larger waves create this danger. The longer the period, the more chances that several swells can come together and have more energy to suddenly charge up the beaches.

“Seas will remain around 10-13 ft at 14 seconds through Sunday due to a westerly swell, but subside to 8-10 ft at 14 seconds by Sunday night as swell heights fall,” the NWS said.

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It has also resulted in a small craft warning for most of the Oregon coast, including the Columbia River Bar.

On the south coast, things are not as extreme. Conditions are below the threshold level for a small craft advisory as well as beach warnings, for areas like Port Orford, Brookings or Reedsport. In fact, offshore waves are below ten feet for this time frame, much less than up north.

This won't end up being great for storm watching in areas like Shore Acres or Cape Disappointment. Waves won't be large enough there.

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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.

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