Beach Hazards Statement

* WHAT...For the Beach Hazards Satement, dangerous rip currents and breaking waves due to elevated surf and minor tidal overflows are possible during high tides. For the High Surf Advisory, large breaking waves of 4 to 7 feet, locally up to 10 feet near Rincon. Dangerous rip currents expected and minor tidal overflows possible during high tides.

* WHERE...Santa Barbara County Southwestern Coast and Santa Barbara County Southeastern Coast. Surf will we highest for west- northwest facing beaches.

* WHEN...For the Beach Hazards Statement, through late tonight. For the High Surf Advisory, from 4 AM Saturday to 4 AM PST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...There is an increased risk of ocean drowning. Rip currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea. Waves can wash people off beaches and rocks, and capsize small boats nearshore.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...A series of significant west- northwesterly swells are expected to produce elevated surf into next week with highest surf and greatest impacts likely peaking Saturday and potentially again Monday. Minor tidal overflows are possible in areas with largest surf, especially during high tide.