A section of the Santa Cruz Wharf collapsed on Monday afternoon amid a high surf warning, resulting in two individuals needing rescue from the water. The incident occurred around 12:45 p.m. and was highlighted by the National Weather Service, which warned the public about the inherent dangers of the ocean conditions.
At the time of the collapse, city personnel were reportedly working on the wharf, and fortunately, there were no reported injuries among those who fell into the water. A third individual managed to reach safety without assistance. The specific area that collapsed included the Dolphin restaurant and a public restroom, which had already been closed since January due to ongoing safety concerns. Santa Cruz Mayor Fred Keeley stated that the affected section had been flagged for necessary repairs.
Due to the collapse, city officials have closed the Santa Cruz Wharf indefinitely and urged the public to avoid the area for their safety. The mayor emphasized that the debris left in the water poses significant hazards for navigation and public safety.
The high surf conditions on the California coast prompted additional challenges as waves reaching up to 35 feet were reported. Following the collapse, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk closed several attractions in response to the hazardous weather, although the Boardwalk Bowl remained open.
Tragically, in separate incidents due to the high surf, one man lost his life at Sunset State Beach, and another person went missing in the waters off Marina State Beach. Authorities are working diligently to manage the situation, including road closures across various areas due to flooding and high surf impacts.
Governor Gavin Newsom’s office confirmed that local officials are receiving support from the California Office of Emergency Services as they navigate the ongoing weather-related challenges.
As the storm continues, residents are reminded to exercise caution and heed warnings from local officials regarding safety along the coast and in flooded areas.
This event serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of community safety during extreme weather conditions. As authorities assess the damage and respond to emergencies, there is hope that with their efforts, the affected areas will recover and rebuild stronger in the future.
In summary, while the wharf collapse highlights the ongoing impacts from severe weather conditions, the community’s response and resilience showcase a collective commitment to safety and recovery.