Santa Cruz, Dec 24, (V7N) – A powerful storm wreaked havoc on the California coastline Monday, causing a section of the Santa Cruz Pier to collapse into the ocean and float away, local weather authorities reported.

The dramatic collapse, which sent two people into the ocean, prompted swift action by lifeguards, who successfully rescued them. A third person managed to escape without assistance, according to local firefighters.

Joe Merrill, a Santa Cruz resident working on the pier at the time, described the sudden devastation:

"About 300 to 500 feet (90-150 meters) of the wharf collapsed," Merrill said. "The crane, cargo... all of it just collapsed. We had divers, boats, everything."

Videos on social media captured the aftermath, showing the damaged pier adrift amid towering waves. The National Weather Service (NWS) emphasized the risks, urging the public to stay away from the coastline:

"Look at the ominous wave action on the horizon. You are risking your life, and those of the people that would need to try and save you by getting in or too close to the water," the agency warned.

The NWS predicted towering waves of up to 40 feet (12 meters) and dangerous beach conditions, including rip currents, sneaker waves, and coastal flooding, to persist through Tuesday.

The storm has already brought heavy rain to southern California, including Los Angeles, with snow expected in mountainous regions. As the system moves inland, it is anticipated to bring gusty winds, more heavy rain, and mountain snow across the Northwest US, with localized severe storms predicted for central and eastern Texas on Tuesday.

As Santa Cruz residents assess the damage, weather authorities continue to stress caution. With more storm systems expected, the region remains under advisories for hazardous conditions along the entire Pacific Coast.

END/WD/RH/