3 fall into ocean after Santa Cruz Wharf collapses due to strong waves ahead of storm

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Posted on 12/23/2024 4:10:42 PM PST by Steven Scharf

3 fall into ocean after Santa Cruz Wharf collapses due to strong waves ahead of storm Monday, December 23, 2024 6:57PM

3 rescued after partial collapse of Santa Cruz Wharf

Two people had to be rescued and another swam to safety after strong waves caused part of the Santa Cruz Wharf to collapse on Monday.

Two people had to be rescued and another swam to safety after strong waves caused part of the Santa Cruz Wharf to collapse on Monday. SANTA CRUZ, Calif. (KGO) -- Three construction workers fell into the ocean Monday after strong waves caused part of the Santa Cruz Wharf to collapse.

Just before 1 p.m., officials say about 150 feet of the wharf which included a construction site and some restrooms fell into the ocean.

Santa Cruz Police Chief Bernie Escalante said in a news conference that two people had to be rescued by a lifeguard unit on jet skis, while the third person was able to swim to safety.

He says the three people were workers inspecting the ongoing construction at the end of the pier which had been closed off to the public since January 2024.

The chief says inspections didn't show any indication that the wharf was at risk of collapsing.

Now officials are monitoring the debris field from the collapse, saying it can go anywhere south.

They are also monitoring the waves which they say will most likely increase in intensity overnight and into tomorrow.

Governor Gavin Newsom's office says he has been briefed on the collapse and that Cal OES is working with local officials to provide support.

TIMELINE: Level 1 storm, High Surf Warning on Monday; heavier rain and gusty winds on Christmas Eve

ABC7 Meteorologist Drew Tuma says there is a High Surf Warning in effect along the coast for life-threatening waves. Heights could exceed 30 feet.

The National Weather Service is warning everyone to stay out of the water and off of jetties, piers and other waterside structures. Beachgoers are warned never to turn their backs on the ocean.

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk posted to X that due to current conditions the Boardwalk, Casino Arcade, and Neptune's Kingdom will be closed for the remainder of the day.

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To: Steven Scharf

2 posted on 12/23/2024 4:13:29 PM PST by SPDSHDW (Execute Order 66....)

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