Hurricane Genevieve is churning in the Pacific Ocean about 500 miles off the southern tip of Baja California, generating hazardous surf along Southern California's coast.
The National Weather Service has issued warnings for life-threatening surf and severe rip currents, particularly on south and southwest-facing beaches.
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High Surf and Rip Currents Expected
The storm has intensified into a Category 4 hurricane with sustained winds near 155 mph. It is tracking northwestward.
Swells could reach up to 11 feet by Wednesday afternoon.
Coastal areas in San Diego and Orange counties can expect general surf heights of 3 to 6 feet, with periodic set waves hitting 7 feet.
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Los Angeles County beaches are also expected to experience heavy surf and dangerous rip currents.
Officials urge beachgoers to check local surf reports before heading to the coast and to swim only in areas guarded by lifeguards.
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The hurricane developed over warm Pacific waters linked to the El Niño climate pattern, which typically increases storm activity across the southern United States.
