High threat of sneaker waves, big breakers on the Oregon coast

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — There is a high chance of sneakers waves along the coast in northwest Oregon and southwest Washington from Friday to Sunday evening.

The National Weather Service is advising beachgoers to use caution and avoid jetties, headlands and log-filled beaches. The National Weather Service recommends that beachgoers never turn their back on the ocean.

“Waves can run up significantly farther on a beach than normal, including over rocks and jetties,” the NWS advisory states. “Sneaker waves can suddenly knock people off of their feet and quickly pull them into the frigid ocean which may lead to serious injury or drowning.”

Powerful 15 to 25-foot waves are also in the weekend forecast. The beach will also be uncomfortably windy, with winds around 20 mph and gusts stronger than 30 mph.