Massive 30-foot waves pummel Washington coast
Jan 18, 2018, 3:51 PM
Massive 30-foot waves continue to pound the north and central Washington coast. Flooding in the nearby lowland areas is possible.
“To get to 30 feet, I wouldn’t call it uncommon,” said BMC Brant Soderlund with the Coast Guard. “Average, a couple times a year.”
Coast Guard reporting 30+ foot waves at Westport. Street flooding downtown. pic.twitter.com/XPe9Iyg2xF
— Kevin McCarty (@KevinKIRO7) January 18, 2018
The Coast Guard recorded 30-foot waves starting Thursday morning. It’s urging everyone to stay away from the beaches. The Coast Guard also says waves will stay strong until Friday afternoon.
“Use common sense,” Soderlund said. “Be safe. Don’t turn your back to the ocean. Don’t go in the water. Stay away from the water. Realize the water level could change drastically in a matter of seconds.”
A coastal flood warning is in effect for the state’s north and central coast. KIRO 7 reports there is flooding in downtown Westport. Other areas at risk are Ocean Shores and Taholah.
“There will be some possible flooding in lowland areas, due to the large waves running up higher than they normally would,” said Gary Schnider with the National Weather Service. “The biggest threat would be during high tide which is sometime this afternoon, depending on where you are.”
