Hurricane Polo May Bring Dangerous Surf to California
Hurricane Polo May Bring Dangerous Surf to California
US · Published Sep 24, 2026
• Hurricane Polo, a powerful Category 5 storm, is generating swells that could impact Southern California beaches starting Sunday, September 27,
• As of September 23, 2026, at 12 a.m. CST, Polo remains stationary about 200 miles south of Zihuatanejo, Mexico, with maximum sustained winds of 165 mph and a central pressure of 905 millibars. While the storm is not expected to make landfall in California, the National Weather Service (NWS) in San Diego is monitoring swells that could peak Monday and last through Tuesday. South-facing beaches, including Laguna Beach, Dana Point, Malibu, and Carlsbad, are particularly at risk. High tides on Monday could reach 7 feet, compounding the potential for coastal flooding and erosion.

Impact & Risks

The primary risks include dangerous rip currents, high surf, and potential coastal flooding. Rip currents pose a significant threat to swimmers, especially those who are inexperienced or unfamiliar with local conditions. Beaches already affected by erosion, such as Laguna Beach and Dana Point, may experience further damage. In Mexico, coastal areas in Guerrero and Michoacán face immediate risks, including 3 to 6 inches of rain with isolated totals up to 8 inches, which could lead to life-threatening flooding and mudslides.

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