A new rainstorm is expected to hit Southern California on Friday night, bringing heavy rain and high surf to the region. This comes as residents in coastal communities are still recovering from the damage caused by powerful waves earlier in the week. Forecasters are predicting that the West Coast will continue to experience rain, high surf, and coastal flooding in the coming days.

Emergency officials have urged people to stay away from the beaches and shorelines over the weekend. In response to the ongoing weather conditions, all beaches and coastal parks in Ventura County, including the popular Ventura Pier, seaside campgrounds, and harbor entries, will remain closed throughout the New Year's weekend. Manhattan Beach Pier in Los Angeles County will also be closed, along with Hermosa Beach Pier on Saturday due to the high surf.

The Los Angeles County Fire Department's Lifeguard Division spokesperson, Pono Barnes, stressed the importance of avoiding the water, especially in areas with heavy activity and large swells. He advised against venturing into the water for surfing or testing one's skills unless there is full confidence.

Ventura County was particularly affected by the high surf on Thursday, causing significant damage. Although the conditions eased on Friday, dangerous waves are expected to return on Saturday, with Southern California beaches potentially experiencing 6- to 12-foot waves along with more rain, according to the National Weather Service.

The next storm system is projected to arrive in San Luis Obispo County on Friday afternoon before moving south along the coast. This will lead to a drop of 2 to 3 degrees in temperatures. However, in Los Angeles and Ventura counties, an offshore flow from the east will result in a slight increase in temperatures on Friday.

The storm will reach the Central Coast overnight, with rain expected to arrive in Los Angeles County by late Saturday morning. The forecast indicates several hours of rain, including intense showers, accompanied by cooler temperatures. Meteorologist David Sweet, from the National Weather Service in Oxnard, warned of nuisance flooding during the heaviest rainfall, advising drivers to be cautious of puddles on roadways and to allow for extra time or slow down.

The forecast for the Pasadena area on New Year's Eve shows a slight chance of rain, which may continue into New Year's Day with a 20% to 30% chance of light showers.

Aside from rain, the National Weather Service is monitoring another system of strong waves, expected to reach the Central Coast on Saturday. The forecast predicts 15- to 20-foot waves, with sets possibly reaching up to 25 feet. In Ventura County, beaches are anticipated to experience 10- to 15-foot waves, including 20-foot sets. Santa Barbara County's South Coast will face 7- to 12-foot waves, and certain west-facing beaches near Point Conception could see 15- to 20-foot sets.

The San Francisco Bay Area is projected to see waves ranging from 28 to 33 feet, with some areas potentially experiencing 40-foot waves, leading the National Weather Service to issue a high surf warning for Saturday.

High surf warnings will remain in effect through Saturday night for Southern California, and a coastal flood advisory has also been issued until 10 p.m. Saturday. Authorities continue to emphasize that people should stay out of the water and away from beaches due to coastal erosion, flooding risks, and strong rip tides.

In Ventura County, residents are evaluating the damage caused by the severe waves. Videos emerged showing a wave crashing onto the Ventura coast, flooding streets and causing chaos. At least eight people were injured, and numerous businesses suffered damages. The Inn on the Beach, a coastal boutique hotel, had to be closed due to flooding.

The powerful wave that breached the barrier is referred to as a "sneaker wave," which can surge unexpectedly farther inland, catching people off guard and potentially causing harm or sweeping them into the ocean. Public officials are urging caution and advising the public to heed the directions of local authorities and lifeguards, emphasizing the danger of sneaker waves.

As the weekend approaches, the focus remains on the safety of individuals. While the high surf is expected to subside by Sunday, it is crucial for people to exercise caution and avoid the water and beaches due to potential risks, including coastal erosion, flooding, and rip tides.

As the region prepares for another rainstorm and high surf, residents and authorities remain vigilant, prioritizing safety and taking necessary precautions to mitigate the impact of these extreme weather conditions.