2 Rescued After Santa Cruz Wharf Partially Collapses Amid High Surf

SANTA CRUZ, CA — Two people were pulled to safety after the Santa Cruz Wharf partially collapsed and fell into the ocean on Monday amid ongoing construction and heavy surf, authorities said.

"A portion of the Santa Cruz Pier has collapsed, and is floating away," the National Weather Service Bay Area said in a post on X, sharing a video of the detached pier almost completely submerged in water. "Look at the ominous wave action on the horizon. You are risking your life, and those of the people that would need to try and save you by getting in or too close to the water."

Officials urged visitors and residents to stay away from low-lying areas near the beaches. Meanwhile, while the city closed the boardwalk, Casino Arcade and Neptunes's Kingdom for the remainder of the day.

"Although the Boardwalk is not directly impacted, the safety of our Guests is our top priority," the city said.

Santa Cruz Fire Department officials reported that lifeguards rescued two people from the water, while a third managed to swim to safety. According to Mayor Fred Keeley, no one sustained serious injuries.

Mayor Keeley explained that the portion of the wharf that collapsed had suffered wear and tear over time. It was undergoing a $4 million renovation, prompted by significant storm damage last winter.

Tony Elliot, director of the Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation Department, estimated that approximately 150 feet of the wharf's end plunged into the water around 12:45 p.m. The area was promptly evacuated and will remain closed indefinitely.

'Life-Threatening' Weather

The collapse came while the coastal city was under a high surf warning that won't expire until 6 p.m. Tuesday. A coastal flood warning will also be in effect until noon Tuesday, according to the weather service.

The weather service warned of wave sets up to 60 feet at favored spots and flooding in low-lying areas.

"Life-threatening swimming and surfing conditions and significant shoreline erosion can be expected," according to the weather service. "Large waves can sweep across the beach without warning, pulling people into the sea from rocks, jetties and beaches."

The weather service explicitly warned people to "stay off of jetties, piers, and other waterside infrastructure."

Monday's events come after the Santa Cruz Wharf was damaged by extreme waves that destroyed part of its structure, forcing the closure of the Dolphin Restaurant at the end of the wharf, according to the city of Santa Cruz.

This is a developing story. Check back for details.

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