Edhat Staff
Update by the City of Santa Barbara
January 6, 2022
The Santa Barbara Waterfront and Harbor were hit hard by the combination of large swell and high tides overnight and [Friday] morning.
There was localized coastal flooding and storm surge that impacted Waterfront parking lots, beaches, the harbor, and Stearns Wharf. As the tide recedes this afternoon City staff will begin cleanup of sand and debris throughout the Waterfront and Harbor.
We ask that you respect signage and posted parking lot closures until this work is complete. There is still risk of rogue waves and coastal flooding throughout the day.
Photos: SBCity
By the edhat staff
January 6, 2022
The City of Santa Barbara announced the closure of Stearns Wharf on Thursday afternoon.
At 4:00 p.m. the city shut down the local landmark to vehicle and pedestrian traffic citing large waves brought on by the passing storm.
“The exit lane will remain open until all existing vehicles are off the Wharf. We will continue to assess the situation and determine when it is safe to reopen the wharf,” the city stated.
The Santa Barbara Harbor entrance also experienced severe shoaling from the storm on Thursday. The strong wave energy associated with this event has increased the littoral drift causing an unprecedented amount of sand accumulation at the harbor entrance. Strong wave energy is predicted to continue throughout the week. The Waterfront Department will meet with the Army Corps. of Engineers to discuss emergency dredging of the area.
Although the harbor entrance is not closed at this time, mariners wishing to enter or depart the harbor do so at their own risk. Mariners are encouraged to contact the Santa Barbara Harbor Patrol on VHF 16 or 12 or (805) 564-5530 for harbor conditions. Harbor Patrol may escort vessels if deemed safe to transit the impacted areas.
“Your patience is appreciated and we are working closely with the Army Corps. of Engineers to get our harbor open without restrictions,” the Harbor Patrol stated.
Photos: SB Waterfront
