Santa Cruz Wharf collapse raises safety concerns as storm batters California coast

A powerful Pacific storm caused part of the Santa Cruz Wharf in California to collapse into the ocean on Monday, leaving three individuals to be rescued amid treacherous conditions. Lifeguards saved two people, while a third swam to safety, according to the Santa Cruz Fire Department. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported.

The incident occurred as the state’s central coast faced heavy surf and hurricane-force winds brought by the storm, which rapidly gained strength. Residents were warned to stay away from low-lying beach areas, with the National Weather Service cautioning that approaching the water could risk lives. The collapsed section of the wharf, which had been under a $4 million renovation following destructive storms last winter, included public restrooms and the closed Dolphin restaurant. This portion floated about half a mile down the coast before lodging at the San Lorenzo River.

Santa Cruz Mayor Fred Keeley described the event as a “catastrophe” for businesses at the wharf's end. Tony Elliot, head of the Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation Department, estimated that 150 feet of the pier fell into the water. Building inspectors are now assessing the structural integrity of the remaining sections. The wharf will remain closed indefinitely.

Beyond Santa Cruz, the storm's effects extended along the West Coast, with towering waves reaching up to 60 feet near California’s central coast and 30 feet in Oregon and Washington. Winds peaked near 80 mph, prompting high surf warnings. The National Weather Service predicted this storm could bring some of the highest surf conditions of the season.

Governor Gavin Newsom has been briefed, and state emergency services are coordinating with local officials. As extreme weather events grow more frequent, this incident highlights the vulnerabilities of coastal infrastructure and the pressing need for resilience planning.