KTLA

Ventura Pier Damaged During High Surf

The Ventura Pier is surrounded by high surf on Dec. 17, 2018. (Credit: KTLA)

The Ventura Pier will remain closed indefinitely after powerful waves slammed California’s coast Monday and damaged the 146-year-old structure.

Strong and potentially destructive waves stemming from a deep low-pressure system centered in the Gulf of Alaska and storm-driven winds are expected to continue through Tuesday night. Forecasters have urged surfers and swimmers to stay out of the ocean.

West-facing beaches will continue to be hit hardest, with waves in Ventura County expected to reach 8 to 12 feet, with sets up to 15 feet. The size and power of the waves in Ventura snapped at least one piling and some bracing on the wooden pier, forcing officials to close the structure about 3 p.m. Monday, according to the Ventura County Police Department.

The pier, which city records show has burned or been at least partially destroyed by storms roughly eight times in its history, will remain closed as officials perform a safety inspection and assess the extent of the damage.

Read the full story on LATimes.com

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