Search Intensifies for Missing Teen Swept Away by Wave at Laguna Beach

The search continues for a teenage girl swept into the ocean by a large wave while walking on Treasure Island Beach in Laguna Beach, California. The incident occurred Tuesday evening when the girl, her mother, and brother were caught by the wave, according to Laguna Beach Marine Safety Chief Kai Bond.

Onlookers managed to rescue the mother and son, who are now stable. One rescuer required assistance from a lifeguard due to waves reaching about 10 feet high.

“We’re expanding our search to include nearby beaches, and we’re deploying divers, rescue vessels, and air resources,” Bond stated. The Orange County Sheriff’s Harbor Patrol and the U.S. Coast Guard are supporting the search efforts.

Currently, Southern California beaches are experiencing high surf, with waves ranging from 5 to 8 feet and potentially reaching 10 feet in certain areas, according to the National Weather Service. In Malibu, the waves could also reach up to 10 feet.

Philip Gonsalves, a National Weather Service meteorologist, indicated that Orange County’s typical surf height is usually below 6 feet. However, the current conditions, driven by Southern Hemisphere winter storm swells, have caused waves to peak at 10 feet, though they are expected to decrease within 24 hours.