The US Weather Service has issued a very high tide warning for the West Coast

Given the huge waves on the west coast of the United States, the US Weather Service warns of the risk of drowning: “Extremely dangerous conditions” prevailed as a result of a violent storm.

Before the start of the year, the United States Weather Service warned of dangerous dangers from large waves and strong currents. The National Weather Service (NWS) said “very hazardous conditions”. Waves of up to nine meters were expected in the US states of California and Oregon as a result of the storm.

“Strong waves and life-threatening currents pose an exceptional risk of inundation and damage to coastal structures,” forecasters warned. Turbulent currents “could sweep swimmers and surfers out to sea.”

Already the first damage

Earlier, a large wave swept away many people and vehicles and flooded a hotel in Ventura County, north of the Los Angeles metropolitan area. Video footage shows how a metre-high wave washed over a sea wall in the town of Ventura, dragging people several metres. “Due to this wave, eight people were taken to local hospitals,” the local fire department wrote on online networks. Other passers-by were able to pass safely.

The Los Angeles Times reported that high waves also damaged the interior of the nearby Inn on the Beach hotel and broke windows. As a result, the hotel was half a meter under water.

There is also a risk of flooding

According to forecasts, high surf is expected along the entire coast. A flood risk has been reported till evening (local time). “Low-lying, vulnerable shoreline areas such as parking lots, beaches and sidewalks are subject to flooding during high tides,” the NWS warned. Large waves “can cause injuries, wash people off beaches and reefs, and capsize small boats close to shore.”

Firefighters and officials worked Friday to protect beaches in Ventura. Video footage shows excavators building a large wall to protect homes on the beach. Officials provided sandbags to protect against flooding.

During the summer, the western United States experienced an extreme heat wave with record temperatures. The following winter was unusually wet. According to experts, global warming is making extreme weather events more frequent.