PORT ANGELES, Wash. — The National Weather Service is warning those on the Washington and Oregon coasts to be aware of potential sneaker waves through Wednesday night.
On Friday, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a Beach Hazards Statement amid windy weather for Oregon's central and north coasts and the south Washington coast.
According to the NWS, sneaker waves can quickly surge onto the beach and can be deadly. "No place on the beach is too high for a wave to reach," the warning read.
These waves can also force large pieces of debris onto the beach and knock over or pin down unsuspecting beachgoers.
Olympic National Park closures
The Olympic National Park announced Friday evening that several coastal campgrounds will be proactively closed because of this weather event.
The park warned visitors to be cautious on the coast this weekend and even consider rescheduling their trips.
"On the Olympic Peninsula, a wind storm can mean life-threatening waves on the coast. It can also mean falling trees, which can be very dangerous and may block roads. If you still choose to come, be extremely careful (especially on the coast) and consider other accommodations rather than camping," national park staff wrote in the post.
How to stay safe
The NWS urges people to keep children and pets far from the surf zone. Everyone is advised to stay away from jetties, rocks and logs near the surf zone.
The windy and wet weather can also cause problems for nearby oceanside cliffs and hills. Beware of falling rocks; don't climb on bluffs and eroding hillsides. Beachgoers are advised to avoid walking along the base of cliffs unless it is absolutely necessary.
If you see someone get swept away, do not go in and swim after them. Call 911 and try to watch the person until help arrives.
Finally, never turn your back on the ocean.
Recent deaths caused by sneaker waves
Sneaker waves have proven to be deadly in this region. In September of this year, a 26-year-old woman was swept out to sea off the coast of Washington's Rialto Beach.
The woman was hiking along the beach with two friends when a wave overpowered the group and she disappeared, according to the national park's public affairs office.
Then, in October, a 52-year-old woman died when a strong wave swept her underwater at Ruby Beach in Jefferson County. According to the National Park Service, she was found unresponsive less than 10 minutes later. She was taken to a nearby medical center, where she later died.