A dramatic rescue video of beachgoers is drawing attention to the dangerous shorebreak conditions that accompanied Southern California’s recent historic swell.
The footage, shared on social media, shows a lifeguard rushing into the surf at an Orange County beach to help a group of beachgoers who were struggling against powerful waves crashing near the shoreline.
The rescue took place during a week that brought some of the largest surf Southern California has seen in years, according to The Surfer.
The video shared on Instagram initially appears to capture a routine day at the beach during the swell conditions. Several people can be seen standing in shallow water as big waves crash into the shore.
Within moments, however, a larger set arrives.
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Thick walls of whitewater crash onto the swimmers, knocking them off their feet and pulling them through the turbulent wash zone.
Some people appear unable to stay steady in the water before another wave breaks over them, highlighting just how rapidly conditions can worsen even in shallow water.
Just as the swimmers are seen flailing in the water, a lifeguard springs into action.
In the video, the lifeguard can be seen rushing into the water, helping those caught in the pounding surf. As waves continue to crash on the beach, he can be seen guiding them away from danger.
The rescue has drawn widespread attention on social media and serves as a reminder that the ocean’s greatest dangers aren’t always hiding far offshore.
Another video, shared by the City of Newport Beach on June 10, shows a POV of lifeguards at work during the powerful south swell and the violent waves.
Hazardous Shorebreaks, Strong Rip Currents
The long-period south swell had attracted beachgoers and surfers at popular surf breaks across the region.
Officials had warned that the massive waves could create hazardous shorebreaks and strong rip currents at several local beaches.
Forecasters had predicted waves of up to 15 feet at Newport Beach’s famed The Wedge, with dangerous conditions expected along south-facing beaches in Orange and San Diego counties.
The powerful swell’s arrival coincides with the start of the summer beach season, when crowds throng local beaches.
Authorities had urged beachgoers to avoid going into the water during peak swell conditions. Those who wanted to venture into the water were advised to swim near staffed lifeguard towers.
Long-period swells carry tremendous force, concentrating energy in just a few feet of water where even experienced swimmers can quickly lose their footing.
As Southern California’s beaches fill with summer crowds, officials continue to urge visitors to swim near staffed lifeguard towers and pay attention to warning flags and signs before entering the water.
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