A powerful summer swell is generating some of the largest Southern California surf in years, particularly in Orange County, where waves are forecast to reach up to 20 feet at Newport Beach's iconic Wedge. local officials have responded by constructing sand berms to protect beachfront homes and increasing lifeguard staffing as high tides are expected to peak at 5.8 feet on Thursday evening. The National Weather Service reports the swell will gradually ease Thursday but remain sizable through the weekend.

20-foot waves at the Wedge: a rare summer spectacle

The Wedge, a notorious surf break at the tip of the Newport Beach peninsula, is expected to see waves towering up to 20 feet due to a combination of incoming swells and reflections off a nearby jetty, according to the report. Such conditions are unusual for summer, which typically produces smaller, more consistent swells. The spectacle has drawn large crowds of surfers and spectators, with beaches packed along the Orange County coastline.

Surf forecasts in many Orange County areas range between 8 and 10 feet, with some spots anticipating waves up to 15 feet. The National Weather Service indicated the swell is among the biggest the region has seen during the summer months, though it did not specify exact comparisons to past years.

Sand berms and 5.8-foot tides: Newport Beach's defensive play

In anticipation of high surf coinciding with high tides, Newport Beach authorities have taken proactive measures. Crews constructed sand berms to shield beachfront homes from incoming water, as tides are projected to peak at 5.3 feet Wednesday evening and rise further to 5.8 feet Thursday evening,according to the report. the city's lifeguard division has also stationed personnel at all towers and deployed additional patrol units and rescue vessels to deal with increased risk.

These steps reflect a growing awareness of coastal hazards, particularly when large waves meet high tide—a combination that can erode beaches and flood low-lying properties. The report notes that lifeguards are advising swimmers to stay near open towers, consult with lifeguards before entering the water, and pay close attention to tower flags indicating current conditions.

What remains unknown about the swell's origin and duration

The report does not specify the exact storm system that generated this powerful summer swell. While typical Southern California swells originate from distant storms in the South Pacific or Gulf of Alaska , the source of this event remains unstated. Readers are left wondering whether this is a one-off weather pattern or part of a broader shift in ocean conditions.

Additionally, the report does not mention any injuries or rescues associated with the high surf, despite the large crowds and hazardous conditions. It is unclear whether the increased lifeguard presence has been sufficient to prevent accidents, or if any incidents have occurred that were not captured in the initial reporting.

Where to find safe water: from Seal Beach to Baby Beach

For families and individuals seeking calmer conditions, officials have directed them to specific safer locations: areas north of Newport Pier, Seal Beach, Baby Beach in Dana Point Harbor, and the lagoon beach at Newport Dunes, according to the report. These spots are expected to have milder surf, making them more suitable for swimming and wading. the advice underscores the stark contrast between the dangerous conditions at exposed beaches like the Wedge and the relative safety of protected bays and piers.