High Surf Advisory In Effect For Los Angeles Coast

VENICE, CA — The National Weather Service issued a high surf advisory this weekend, warning of dangerous rip currents and breaking waves of 5 to 8 feet expected along the coast in Los Angeles and Ventura counties.

The increased risk is expected starting at 4 p.m. Friday to 4 p.m. Sunday.

"Beachgoers should use caution and be mindful of dangerous rip currents and sneaker waves," according to the National Weather Service. "Swim near a lifeguard. If caught in a rip current, relax and float. Don't swim against the current. If able, swim in a direction following the shoreline. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help."

Officials are warning people to be cautious. Conditions could be dangerous for swimming and high surf could produce localized beach erosion and dangerous swimming conditions, according to the agency.

"There is an increased risk for ocean drowning," the NWS said. "Rip currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea. Large breaking waves can cause injury, wash people off beaches and rocks, and capsize small boats near shore."