Crews were clearing sand and debris from Santa Barbara’s waterfront and harbor on Thursday and Friday, caused by localized coastal flooding from massive swells and storm surges during recent storms.
Mud and water covered much of the breakwater, and storm surges and swells completely washed away the sandy seawall in front of the Santa Barbara Yacht Club.
Yacht club members volunteered to clean up sand, mud, seaweed, and other debris that washed up on their property and waterfront areas.
“The entrance to the Port of Santa Barbara has experienced severe shallow water in recent storms,” the city of Santa Barbara said Thursday. “The strong wave energy associated with this event has increased coastal drift and caused an unprecedented amount of sand accumulation at the harbor entrance. Strong wave energy is projected to continue throughout the week. The Waterfront Division will meet with the Army Corps of Engineers to discuss emergency dredging in the area.”
The harbor entrance was not closed, but people entering and leaving the harbor were advised to exercise caution.
More rain is expected in Santa Barbara County on Saturday night and Sunday, with another strong storm system expected from Monday.
“In addition to rain concerns, moderate to strong southerly winds will affect all areas. The central coast and all mountainous areas are likely to experience gusts in excess of 60 to 75 mph.” the National Weather Service said in a discussion on the forecast Friday. “Tree damage and many blackouts should be expected and planned for.”
Current estimates indicate 2 to 4 inches of precipitation in the forecast, and 4 to 8 inches of precipitation in the mountains and foothills.
The National Weather Service also expects showers and thunderstorms in the area next week, with another storm coming next weekend.
