Edhat Staff
Rescue crews from throughout the Central Coast responded to the Oceano Dunes in San Luis Obispo County to help evacuate campers during strong waves and high water levels on Thursday.
The Santa Barbara County Fire Department, CAL Fire SLO, and State Parks were on the scene during the morning hours as recreational vehicles (RVs) and travel trailers were being overcome by crashing waves.
A vehicle carrying a family of five required a rescue operation as they attempted to cross a creek to leave the camping area. The vehicle was then swept into the waves.
A rescue swimmer pulled four adults and one child out of the vehicle to safety. They were transported to a nearby hospital for potential hypothermia.
Santa Barbara County Air Support Helicopter 308 provided aerial reconnaissance to assist ground crews in multiple rescues due to the extreme surf conditions and RVs getting stuck in the surf line.
SBC ASU Captor 308 responded yesterday to Oceano Dunes to assist San Luis County with multiple potential rescues due to extreme surf conditions and RVs getting stuck in the surf line. Our team conducted aerial reconnaissance to ensure everyone’s safety. pic.twitter.com/VkxCWT3jod
— Scott Safechuck (@SBCFireInfo) December 29, 2023
The National Weather Service issued a High Surf Warning for all west-facing beaches through Saturday night. Waves 15-20 feet are expected with local sets up to 25 feet. Dangerous rip currents are also expected, and a Coastal Flood Warning is in effect through Saturday because of the combination of high tides and strong waves.
SBC ASU Captor 308 responded yesterday to Oceano Dunes additional video. pic.twitter.com/irORjit1r3
— Scott Safechuck (@SBCFireInfo) December 29, 2023
