A powerful storm hit the central California coast on Monday, partially collapsing a pier in Santa Cruz and sweeping three people out to sea.
Dramatic footage and images showed a toilet building destroyed by waves on the beach. A damaged pier floating in the sea Debris was scattered on the surface of the water.
Santa Cruz Mayor Fred Keeley said three structures on the pier were being repaired after damage from coastal storms over the past two years, but were swept out to sea in the tragic collapse.
Mr Keeley said two people were rescued by swimming rescue workers and the third person was “extricated on his own” and warned local residents to avoid the area.
“It's not something we think people should stay out of,” he said. “We advise people not to enter the water until further notice.”
Around 12:45 p.m., an ocean “swell” hit the pier, causing a 150-foot section of the end to collapse, said Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation Director Tony Elliott.
The closed restaurant The Dolphin, a restroom building that was part of the renovation project, and construction equipment were all washed away during the collapse.
According to officials, the section of the pier that collapsed had been closed since January this year due to construction.
“The pier is currently closed and will remain closed indefinitely until the structure can be assessed,” Elliott added.
caused by a broader storm.Very rough seas, waves breaking up to 60 feetAccording to the National Weather Service Bay Area Office, flooding and damage occurred across California's Pacific Coast.
A man died Monday after a huge wave trapped him under debris at Sunset State Beach near Santa Cruz, KSBW announced. reported.
