High Surf Warning & Storm Preparedness

A powerful atmospheric river is expected to arrive in our county as early as Wednesday evening, bringing heavy rainfall and high winds with gusts reaching up to 60 MPH. Additionally, we can anticipate strong waves. A flood watch will be in effect from 10:00 PM on Wednesday until 10:00 PM on Saturday. Please prepare for potential power outages, travel disruptions, and localized flooding. Review your family preparedness plans, charge all communication devices, secure items on your property to withstand strong winds, and stay informed by following local news updates.

A High Surf Warning is in effect from 3:00 PM on Thursday, February 13, 2025, until 3:00 AM on Saturday, February 15, 2025. Dangerously large waves are expected to impact the entire coastline, particularly the west-facing beaches. These conditions pose life-threatening risks and could lead to significant beach erosion. Please avoid all coastal areas during this time.

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch from 10:00 PM tonight (2/12/25) through 10:00 PM Saturday (2/15/25).  A Flood Watch means excessive rainfall could cause flooding.  In Capitola, we can expect up to three inches of rain and winds with gusts up to 60 mph.  Road closures due to downed trees or localized flooding could impact commuters and residents.  In the case of evacuation warnings, accurate information can be obtained on the OR3 County website: https://www.santacruzcountyca.gov/or3.aspx(link is external), Nixle Alerts/Cruz Aware; Alert Notification Application, or Capitola PD social media posts.

Stay safe and visit www.santacruzcountyca.gov/OR3.aspx(link is external) for more information, including preparedness tips.

Capitola residents can get free sandbags by going to the Capitola Police Department lobby.  Sand to fill the bags is available in the upper Beach and Village parking lot directly behind 420/422 Capitola Avenue, Capitola. 

Please review your family preparedness plans, charge your electronics, secure items on your property for wind impacts, and follow local news and social media for updates.

** The Capitola beach access and the Capitola Wharf will be Closed 2/13 - 2/15.**