Swimmers in Crescent City, California, are facing a serious threat as water temperatures have dropped to dangerous levels due to coastal winds.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reports that the water temperature is a frigid 47.3 degrees Fahrenheit, significantly below the norm for this time of year and even colder than typical winter temperatures. As per the sources newsweek
The cause of this chilling plunge is an “intense marine cold spell,” with meteorologists pointing to strong upwelling of cold ocean water.
This phenomenon, intensified by winds blowing south from Oregon, pushes warmer surface water out to sea and brings colder water to the coast.
As a result, hypothermia can occur in as little as 30 minutes in these conditions.
Storm chaser Colin McCarthy highlighted the severity of the situation on social media, noting that a buoy near Crescent City recently recorded a water temperature of 46°F.
The National Weather Service’s Danny Schmiegel advises against swimming without a wetsuit in Northern and Central California waters, even under average conditions.
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The risks of hypothermia are significant. The National Institutes of Health reports that 1,330 people in the U.S. die annually from cold exposure.
Early symptoms include shivering, but more severe signs such as slurred speech, confusion, and slowed pulse can develop if body temperature isn’t quickly restored.
This marine cold spell is not only endangering swimmers but also impacting coastal weather.
On Friday morning, coastal areas experienced air temperatures around 10 degrees cooler than inland regions, where temperatures soared to over 100°F in the Central Valley.
Residents and visitors are urged to exercise caution and prioritize safety by staying out of the water or wearing proper gear to protect against the cold.