California

Man Dies as High Surf Hammers Coastal California

A large wave trapped the man under debris along the coast, while three construction workers survived a plunge into the ocean from a damaged wharf in Santa Cruz.
Man Dies as High Surf Hammers Coastal California
The collapsed pier at the Santa Cruz Wharf in Santa Cruz, Calif., on Dec. 23, 2024. Daniel Dreifuss/AFP via Getty Images
Jill McLaughlin
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Beaches in Southern and Central California faced dangerously high surf starting Dec. 23, with conditions weakening on Christmas Eve, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

A man died Monday after a large wave trapped him beneath debris on a Santa Cruz County beach, officials said. His death was likely related to the storm pummeling the West Coast, according to the sheriff’s office.

Jill McLaughlin
Jill McLaughlin
Author
Jill McLaughlin is an award-winning journalist covering politics, environment, and statewide issues. She has been a reporter and editor for newspapers in Oregon, Nevada, and New Mexico. Jill was born in Yosemite National Park and enjoys the majestic outdoors, traveling, golfing, and hiking.