Residents along the Santa Cruz County coast are on high alert as dangerous surf conditions prompt evacuation warnings in several areas. Coastal communities including Aptos, Pajaro Dunes, and Capitola have been urged to prepare for potential evacuation due to safety threats caused by large breaking waves and high tides. The warnings come as the National Weather Service has issued a High Surf Warning for Bay Area coastal areas, emphasizing the potential for life-threatening conditions along the shore.

The evacuation warnings began just before 8 a.m. on Thursday, with coastal areas near Seacliff State Beach in Aptos, zone CTL-E048 on the Genasys Protect map, being the first to receive the alert. The announcement was followed by the inclusion of areas around Pajaro Dunes, zone CRZ-E070, and later extended to Capitola, particularly the lower Esplanade area corresponding to zones CTL-E027A and CTL-E027B.

Residents in the affected areas have been advised to be prepared for evacuation should an order be issued. To accommodate evacuees, a temporary evacuation point has been established at New Brighton Middle School in Capitola. The center is open to anyone who feels unsafe and wants to leave their homes preemptively, offering essential facilities such as water and power.

The severity of the situation is evident as county officials reported flooding along the Rio Del Mar Esplanade in Aptos. In the city of Santa Cruz, areas including East Cliff Drive at Schwan Lake, Corcoran Lagoon, and Moran Lake experienced flooding, leading to the closure of these locations. County officials are urging people to stay away from the coast and exercise caution.

The High Surf Warning, which commenced at 3 a.m. on Thursday, is scheduled to remain in effect until 3 a.m. Friday. The National Weather Service has also issued a Coast Flood Advisory, which will also be in effect until 3 a.m. Friday.

With potential life-threatening conditions along the shoreline, authorities and residents are taking necessary precautions to ensure safety. The local community is urged to stay updated on weather conditions and follow any official evacuation orders promptly.