PORTLAND, OR – A warning for those traveling to the coast this week with potentially unpredicatable danger.
Forecasters call for a moderate threat through Wednesday morning for sneaker waves to appear.
National Weather Service meteorologist Thomas Schuldt says they’re a sign of an impending storm.
“When we have storm systems, especially at this time of the year, they’re really active over the Pacific (Ocean),” Schuldt said. “They can send these longer period, larger swells into the Pacific Northwest.”
Schuldt says the waves could catch beachgoers by surprise.
“Occasionally, waves may run up significantly further than one may anticipate,” Schuldt said. “Definitely one of those scenarios where folks are out there (that) they really want to make sure they are aware of their surroundings.”
Although, Schuldt says the forecast for the coast is calm until later in the week. To stay safe, beachgoers should avoid rocks, logs, and jetties near the waterline.
NWS Portland says one of the most important things for beach-goers to remember is to never turn your back to the ocean.
