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Oregon Coast Braces for 33-Foot Waves as High Surf Warning Runs Through Sunday Night
The National Weather Service warns of breaking waves up to 33 feet on the central Oregon coast through 10 p.m. Sunday, with king tides and deadly sneaker waves expected later this month.
The National Weather Service has issued a high surf warning for the central Oregon coast, forecasting breaking waves of 28 to 33 feet through 10 p.m. Sunday. The agency cautioned that destructive waves could unexpectedly wash over beaches, jetties and other structures, with higher-than-normal water run-up expected on beaches and low-lying shoreline.
Forecasters urged beachgoers to stay away from large logs, jetties and rocks near the surf zone while the warning is in effect. Sneaker waves can roll heavy logs onto people, causing serious injury or death. If someone is swept into the water, bystanders should call 911 rather than attempt a rescue themselves.
The dangerous conditions are a prelude to the return of king tides, which will bring enormous swells and breaking waves to the coastline around Depoe Bay from Nov. 23 through Nov. 27, according to Depoe Bay tourism officials. Additional king tides are expected Dec. 22-26 and Jan. 20-24, 2027.
King tides draw visitors from across the Pacific Northwest eager to watch the spectacle, but the periodic event can be as deadly as it is beautiful. Since 1990, at least 21 people have been killed in sneaker wave incidents, which are far more likely during high-tide periods such as those created by king tides.
For those who want to watch the waves safely, the City of Depoe Bay recommends the Depoe Bay Seawall and Spouting Horn, as well as the Boiler Bay and Rocky Creek State scenic viewpoints.