A portion of the Santa Cruz Wharf collapsed Monday, sending three construction workers plunging safely amid dangerous storm conditions along California's central coast. The National Weather Service confirmed the incident occurred at approximately 12:45 p.m. as Pacific waves reached up to 26 feet and high surf warnings were issued for the region.
According to the Santa Cruz Police Department, the collapsed section of the wharf, about 150 feet long, had been closed for repairs from earlier storm damage. The area included public restrooms and the now-closed Dolphin restaurant. After the collapse, the debris floated about half a mile down the coast before getting wedged at the bottom of the San Lorenzo River.
Of the three engineers who fell when the structure gave way, two were rescued by lifeguards, and one managed to swim to safety. Thankfully, they were treated and released without significant injuries, according to fire department officials. The wharf had been under inspection due to the prior structural damage, and at the time of the incident, no members of the public were present.
This dramatic collapse was marked by the chaotic weather conditions affecting California over the past few days. "The ocean is not messing around today," the National Weather Service warned via social media. The storm had brought high winds and surf, prompting the closing of several nearby beaches, including Main Beach and Cowell’s Beach.
California Governor Gavin Newsom was briefed about the pier collapse, and the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services coordinated responses with local agencies. Santa Cruz Mayor Fred Keeley described the circumstances, noting the renovation work had been intense, with multiple warnings about the wharf's condition prior to the collapse. “It’s a catastrophe for those down at the end of the wharf,” remarked David Johnston, owner of Venture Quest Kayaking, as he assessed damage to his business.
Reports suggested the storm contributed to other incidents along the coast, including the tragic death of one man trapped under debris at Sunset State Beach, attributed to powerful waves. Near Marina State Beach, search efforts for another missing man were halted due to worsening conditions.
Officials have closed the Santa Cruz Wharf indefinitely as building inspectors evaluate the structural integrity of the remaining piers. The National Weather Service's Bay Area office reiterated the potentially life-threatening nature of the ocean conditions this week, urging residents to avoid coastal areas.
This incident echoes past storms, including one earlier this year when the Seacliff State Beach pier saw similar destruction. With dangerous surf conditions forecasted to persist, officials continue to stress safety precautions, emphasizing the risks imposed by powerful and unpredictable waves.
Santa Cruz remains under close scrutiny as authorities monitor the shoreline, assess damages, and enforce public safety measures during this turbulent weather period. The wharf’s plight highlights the pressing need for repairs and the inherent dangers of California's coastal environments, especially during severe weather events.
