A section of the Santa Cruz Wharf collapsed on Monday afternoon as a high-surf warning was in effect, leading to the rescue of two individuals from the water. The incident affected the weather-impacted region, which has witnessed extensive road closures and evacuations due to flooding and high surf conditions.
The collapse occurred around 12:45 p.m., as confirmed by local officials. A post from the National Weather Service warned of the dangers posed by the turbulent waves and cautioned residents to steer clear of the water for their safety. Thankfully, the Santa Cruz Fire Department confirmed that two individuals, who were city workers at the wharf, required assistance but sustained no injuries.
According to Santa Cruz Mayor Fred Keeley, the part of the wharf that collapsed included the notorious Dolphin restaurant and one of the public restrooms on-site, both of which have been scheduled for repairs in the future. The area had been closed to the public since January, signaling ongoing concerns about its structural stability.
In a related note, the Governor’s office has been informed of the situation, and the California Office of Emergency Services is working with local officials to provide necessary support in the aftermath of the incident.
Amid the destructive weather, high surf conditions are expected to persist along the Northern California coastline, with breaking waves reaching heights of 30 to 35 feet. While the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk closed earlier in the afternoon for safety reasons, some facilities, like the Boardwalk Bowl, remained operational.
This unfortunate event highlights the ongoing challenges coastal communities face when extreme weather conditions arise. Local authorities are currently assessing the integrity of structures along the coastline as they prepare for an incoming storm, emphasizing the need for caution among residents and visitors alike.
Despite the challenges posed by the severe weather, the prompt response of emergency services and city officials reflects a united community effort to keep residents safe and navigate the aftermath of this incident. There is hope that through proper assessments and coordinated emergency responses, the Santa Cruz area will recover and reinforce its infrastructure against future storms.