On Monday, a pier under construction in Santa Cruz, California collapsed into the ocean due to severe surf from a Pacific storm. Two engineers were rescued, while another swam to safety. The structure was undergoing a $4 million renovation following earlier damage. High ocean swells and dangerous conditions are forecasted to continue as officials monitor the situation and assess risks to public infrastructure.
Two individuals were rescued from the ocean on Monday following the partial collapse of a construction pier in Santa Cruz, California, due to intense surf conditions linked to a major Pacific storm. The structure was undergoing renovations as part of a $4 million project aimed at repairing damage sustained from previous storms. The State’s Office of Emergency Services is working closely with local officials to address the situation and ensure public safety during this hazardous weather event.
The National Weather Service issued warnings urging residents to steer clear of coastal areas as strong winds were anticipated, potentially reaching hurricane force offshore. Lifeguards successfully rescued the two individuals, while another managed to swim to shore, with no serious injuries reported. The mayor indicated that the collapsed section of the wharf had experienced deterioration over time and highlighted concerns over the remaining pilings that pose risks to vessels navigating near the coast.
As forecasts predict ocean swells could reach 26 feet along the central coast, officials continue to monitor the storm’s progression. Previous experiences, such as the significant damage to the Seacliff State Beach pier last winter, underscore the high vulnerability of coastal infrastructures to intense weather. This incident not only emphasizes the immediate dangers posed by the storm but also the ongoing need for inspections and safety measures for public infrastructure around vulnerable coastal regions.
On Monday, the Santa Cruz Wharf, which was in the midst of critical renovations, partially collapsed due to heavy surf produced by a significant Pacific storm. This storm, generating hurricane-force winds and extremely high ocean swells, posed considerable risks to coastal areas. Lifeguards were dispatched to rescue two engineers from the water who had been inspecting the pier at the time of the collapse, further showcasing the dangers associated with such storm conditions.
The partial collapse of the pier in Santa Cruz serves as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by severe weather on coastal infrastructure. Nevertheless, the successful rescue of two engineers underscores effective emergency responses in risky situations. As California braces for increasing storm swells and the potential for hazardous conditions, it emphasizes the importance of structural assessments and safety measures for coastal establishments. Local and state officials remain vigilant as they monitor ongoing developments in weather and infrastructure.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
