Deadly sneaker waves strike Bay Area beaches in dangerous storms

Sneaker waves are not an anomaly; rather, they are regular, routine, predictable giant waves that commonly occur in January in Northern California.
Generally, sneaker waves occur when two large peaks converge and suddenly create a monster, such as the one that swept ashore during the Mavericks surf competition in 2010 and injured 16 spectators.
- On a steep beach, the waves will run up and rush back pretty quickly.
- If the tide’s coming in, that’s going to act in concert with those converging waves.
- Remember that sneaker waves are hard to predict.
- Remain aware of your surroundings.
- Do not play on the rocks.
- Do not overestimate your swimming abilities.
- Do not underestimate the power of the sea.
- Never turn your back on the water.