Pier Collapse in Santa Cruz Amid Severe Storm Leaves Two Rescued
A pier under construction in Santa Cruz collapsed into the ocean amid severe storm conditions, prompting the rescue of two engineers and a project manager. The structure was previously damaged and undergoing renovations. Authorities warned residents to stay away from affected coastal areas as dangerous swells and winds approach from an advancing storm.
On Monday, during a significant storm impacting California’s central coast, two individuals were rescued when a pier under construction partially collapsed into the ocean. The collapse occurred as heavy surf battered the region, accompanied by warnings of increasing storm conditions expected to escalate over the coming hours. Authorities urged local residents to maintain distance from low-lying coastal areas to prevent hazardous situations from arising due to the adverse weather conditions.
The Santa Cruz Fire Department confirmed the rescue of two engineers and a project manager, while a third individual was able to swim to safety following the incident. Mayor Fred Keeley noted that the affected section of the pier, which had been undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation, had deteriorated over time. Around 150 feet of the structure fell into the ocean at approximately 12:45 PM, resulting in an immediate evacuation of the area and an indefinite closure of the wharf.
Emerging from the aftermath of last winter’s destructive storms, which had already caused extensive damage to coastal infrastructure, this recent collapse has raised concerns regarding the integrity of the remaining structure. The Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation Department’s director, Tony Elliot, remarked on the significant hazards posed by the remnants of the pier’s pilings, which remain submerged and present risks to marine navigation.
Notably, the recent storm system has led meteorologists to issue alarms regarding potential hurricane-force winds and dangerous ocean swells. The National Weather Service emphasized the seriousness of the situation, indicating that conditions would worsen, with swells anticipated to reach heights of 26 feet.
In light of this urgent matter, Governor Gavin Newsom has been briefed, and the state’s Office of Emergency Services is collaborating with local authorities to address the ongoing risks associated with the storm and the pier damage.
The recent incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities coastal infrastructure faces amidst severe weather patterns exacerbated by climate change. As storms become increasingly intense, areas such as the California coast are left vulnerable to damage, particularly to piers and wharves that are subject to continual erosion and degradation. The Santa Cruz Wharf, previously undergoing renovations due to past storm damage, is one such vulnerable structure, with ongoing assessments now necessary to evaluate the overall integrity of the remaining parts of the wharf.
In conclusion, the collapse of the Santa Cruz pier due to severe storm conditions underscores the challenges coastal infrastructure endures and highlights the importance of timely safety measures. As repairs and assessments commence, authorities will continue to monitor weather developments closely to ensure the safety of residents and first responders. With storm conditions expected to escalate further, vigilance remains paramount.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
