Dec. 16--With a triple whammy of storms hitting Southern California this week, there are advisories at area beaches for high surf and dangerous rip currents.
Along the coast in Los Angeles and Ventura counties, waves could be as high as 12 feet.
The National Weather Service predicted surf height of 6 to 9 feet in those counties with sets maxing out at 12 feet -- and little change in the dangerous conditions on Wednesday.
Rip currents are a danger Tuesday and Wednesday off Santa Barbara, Orange and San Diego counties as well with strong currents and dangerous swimming conditions, the NWS says.
In Orange and San Diego county coastal areas, high surf is expected to gradually subside Tuesday night.
Rip currents occur as incoming surf traps water near the shoreline. The water then flows along the shore until it reaches a dip in the floor, which channels the water back out to sea, creating a fast-moving current that can snare swimmers.
To escape a rip current, officials say swimmers should allow themselves to be carried seaward until the current weakens, then swim parallel to the beach until out of its grasp.
L.A. Times staff writer Joseph Serna contributed to this report.
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