Three individuals plunged into the Pacific Ocean when a section of the Santa Cruz Wharf in California partially collapsed during severe storm conditions on Monday at 12:45 p.m. PT.
A project manager and two contractors working on the wharf fell into the turbulent waters. While two required rescue assistance, one person managed to exit the ocean independently. All three were transported to a hospital with minor injuries, according to Santa Cruz officials.
Fire Chief Rob Oatey confirmed the collapse occurred during significant storm swells, prompting an evacuation of the wharf’s intact sections. Before the incident, approximately 150 feet of the pier had been closed to public access due to damage from previous storms.
The National Weather Service Bay Area warned of life-threatening conditions along the Pacific Coast through Tuesday, citing very high surf, rip currents, sneaker waves, and coastal flooding. They reported breaking waves reaching up to 60 feet and extremely dangerous maritime conditions.
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