In the wake of Southern California’s recent historic swell, which delivered memorable sessions and some of the biggest waves the region has seen in years, many people are licking their wounds and counting their lucky stars.
As for the latter, the lifeguards can take a lot of credit. There were untold numbers of rescues amidst the large surf, which for those who are unfamiliar with the unrelenting power of the ocean, can quickly turn dangerous.
On social media, a dramatic video is circulating that shows exactly how fast things can go wrong. Filmed at an Orange County beach during the peak of the swell, the footage captures a group of beachgoers being repeatedly hammered by powerful shorebreak waves in the shallow water near shore. Then, a heroic lifeguard springs into action.
At first, the scene appears manageable. Then a larger set arrives.
One after another, thick walls of whitewater crash directly onto the group, knocking people off their feet and dragging them through the turbulent wash zone. Several individuals appear unable to regain their footing before another wave detonates on top of them.
Within seconds, a nearby lifeguard springs into action.
The harrowing clip shows the unidentified lifeguard – a nameless savior – charging into the surf and assisting those caught in the impact zone as wave after wave continues to pound the shoreline. It’s the type of rescue that rarely makes headlines but unfolds countless times during major swell events up and down the California coast.
Related: 20ft Swell Slams SoCal Harbor Creating Rare Wave for Surfers (Video)
In the comments, the lifeguard was applauded:
“We don’t pay those lifeguards enough for what they do.”
“Heroic lifeguard!”
“Superhero in red shorts! Hope he got them all.”
The footage also serves as a stark reminder that the greatest danger isn’t always far offshore.
While experienced surfers were chasing large waves at spots throughout Southern California, many beaches were experiencing violent shorebreak conditions capable of injuring even strong swimmers. The energy concentrated in just a few feet of water can be surprisingly powerful, especially during long-period swells generated by distant storms.
The rescue comes amid a sobering week for Southern California’s beach communities. Just days earlier, 5-year-old Amada Mia Brown was swept out to sea in Laguna Beach during the same run of dangerous surf. Her death has underscored the risks associated with extreme ocean conditions, and highlighted the need for ocean awareness.
When in doubt, don’t go out. Listen to the lifeguards. Heed the warning signs.
Related: Missing 5-Year-Old Girl Found in Massive Laguna Beach Surf (Video)
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