Oregon — The National Weather Service (NWS) Portland is warning beachgoers that “another round of elevated Sneaker Waves are expected Monday night through early Thursday morning.” The agency says an “8–10 foot long period swell will create high energy waves that push higher up the beach than normal,” increasing danger along the Oregon coastline.
Forecasters noted that the incoming swell will coincide with seasonal King Tides, creating what they describe as “a scenario prime for heightened beach concerned.” The NWS emphasized that these waves can rush unexpectedly far up the shore, knocking people down and sweeping them into the ocean.
The advisory also includes direct safety guidance: “Remember to never turn your back to the ocean, and stay off of rocks and logs – especially during high tide.”
The advisory comes amid renewed attention to sneaker wave dangers. In October, OPB reported that the Oregon Coast has seen increasingly frequent sneaker-wave-driven emergencies, prompting repeated small craft advisories and surf warnings as long-period swells catch beachgoers and boaters off guard (OPB, “Sneaker waves, small craft advisory issued for the Oregon Coast,” Oct. 17, 2025).
The risks extend beyond boating. A Surfer.com report detailed the death of an Oregon woman who was swept out to sea by a sneaker wave while walking along the shoreline, an event captured on video and cited by safety officials as a tragic example of how quickly these waves strike.
With this week’s elevated surf expected to peak during King Tides, coastal authorities are urging residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution and avoid unstable logs, jetties, and steep beaches where powerful run-up can occur without warning.
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