Sneaker Wave Alerts From S. Oregon Coast to Central Washington Coast - 16-ft Seas Possible

Published 02/11/26 at 5:55 a.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Seaside, Oregon) - The National Weather Service is urging extreme caution along the Oregon and Washington coastlines this week as a moderate to high risk of sneaker waves develops across the region.

Forecasters say the threat is greatest on the south Oregon coast from Thursday into Friday morning, with high tides on Friday expected to worsen conditions. Farther north, from the central Washington coast down through Florence, a Beach Hazards Statement will be in effect from Friday through Sunday morning.

“Unsettled seas will allow for the possibility of sneaker waves to develop along Oregon beaches from Wednesday night into Thursday afternoon,” the NWS said.

Sneaker waves can surge much farther up the beach than typical surf, sweeping people off their feet and into cold water. They can also wash over rocks and jetties or move large logs, creating life-threatening hazards. The NWS restated the long-standing warning: never turn your back on the ocean.

Officials advise beachgoers to use caution near the surf zone, especially those planning to razor clam. Children and pets should be kept well away from the water. People are urged to stay off jetties, rocks, and logs. If someone is swept into the ocean, bystanders should not attempt a rescue; instead, call 911 and keep visual contact until help arrives.

Seas of 6 to 9 feet are expected through Thursday, with light westerly winds developing in the afternoon. A long-period westerly swell arriving Thursday night into Friday will rapidly build seas to 13 to 16 feet by early Friday morning. Forecasters note a 10 percent chance that seas could reach 17 to 18 feet in a worst-case scenario. Conditions are expected to ease late Friday, with seas hovering near 9 to 10 feet through the weekend.

See each of the weather pages for surf predictions as well.

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Washington Coast Weather

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Manzanita Weather / Waves
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