Southern California saw temperatures reaching triple digits, but beachgoers hoping to cool down have been warned to stay out of the area's most popular beaches.
The National Weather Service forecast for the week of Aug. 31 shows that temperatures are not likely to reach over 100 degrees in cities such as Los Angeles, Simi Valley, Santa Clarita and Ventura.
Despite the temperature drop, the heat persists, with the heat expected to stay around in the high 80s to low 90s across Ventura and Los Angeles counties, the agency said.
With Ventura and Los Angeles counties have some popular spots for swimming and surfing, those hoping to beat the heat may be tempted to hit the beaches, but the agency has warned visitors to avoid the water.
Why should you avoid some SoCal beaches?
The weather agency
warned that starting Aug. 30, beaches along the coast of Ventura and Los Angeles counties could experience dangerous rip currents and waves with isolated sets up to 6 feet.
The hazards statement is in effect through the afternoon of Aug. 31.
Officials recommend that beachgoers stay out of the water because rip currents can pull people under and drown them, the weather agency said.
The beaches up and down the coast of the two counties are some of the most popular in the area for surfing and swimming, including Zuma Beach in Malibu, Venice in Los Angeles and Ventura Beach in Ventura.
Rip current safety tips
National Weather Service tips for swimming at the beach:
- Swim at a beach protected by a lifeguard, if possible.
- Don't swim alone.
- Learn to swim in the surf, not just in calm waters like a pool or lake.
- Remain cautious in unguarded beaches.
- Obey instructions from lifeguards.
- Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties, as rip currents can permanently exist near them.
- Keep a close eye on children and elderly.
- Get help from a lifeguard; if one isn't available, call 911.
- If someone appears to be in a rip current, throw them something that floats, such as a lifejacket, cooler or beach ball.
Ernesto Centeno Araujo covers breaking news for the Ventura County Star. He can be reached at ecentenoaraujo@vcstar.com, 805-437-0224 or @ecentenoaraujo on Instagram and X.
This article originally appeared on Ventura County Star: Amid high temperatures, officials urge Californians to avoid beaches
