Massive waves on California coast cause flooding, force evacuations

Lifeguards patrol the waters off the coast of Del Mar, California as large ocean swells batter the coastline in California, U.S., December 30, 2023. REUTERS/Mike Blake

(Reuters) - Coastal communities in California faced another day of towering waves and possible flooding on Saturday as officials issued evacuation orders in some areas and warned residents to stay off beaches and coastal roadways.

The National Weather Service in Los Angeles forecast significant flooding in low-lying coastal areas with powerful waves and strong rip current posing an "exceptional risk" of drowning and damage to structures like piers and jetties.