On a stormy in Santa Cruz, California, a portion of the Santa Cruz Wharf collapsed. This incident sent three people into the ocean. It was a scary moment, but thankfully, all three were rescued. Let’s dive into what happened and the details surrounding this event.
The Incident
The collapse happened around 12:45 PM. At that time, the Santa Cruz area was experiencing heavy surf. This was due to a strong storm that had been affecting the coast. The surf was powerful, and it caused part of the wharf to break off. About 150 feet of the structure fell into the water. This section included public restrooms and a restaurant called The Dolphin that had been closed for renovations.

The three individuals who fell into the ocean were not just bystanders. They were working on the wharf. One was a project manager, and the other two were contractors. They were inspecting the area when the collapse occurred. Luckily, two of them were rescued by lifeguards, while the third managed to swim to safety.
Rescue Efforts
Emergency responders acted quickly. Lifeguards were on the scene and helped pull two of the workers from the choppy waters. The third person, who made it out on their own, was also checked by medical teams. All three were taken to the hospital but were reported to have only minor injuries.
The Santa Cruz Police Department used a drone to survey the area and ensure there were no additional victims in the water. This technology helped confirm the safety of the surrounding area.

Background of the Wharf
The Santa Cruz Wharf has been undergoing renovations. This work was necessary because the structure had sustained damage from previous winter storms. The section that collapsed had been closed to the public for safety reasons. However, the heavy surf proved to be too much for the weakened structure.
Mayor Fred Keeley expressed concern about the wharf’s condition. He mentioned that the area where the collapse occurred was particularly vulnerable. The mayor indicated that the storm’s impact was severe and that future storms could lead to more damage.
Warnings and Precautions
In light of the collapse, local officials warned residents and visitors to stay away from the coast. The National Weather Service issued alerts about dangerous surf conditions. They advised everyone to avoid all coastal areas, including beaches, jetties, and cliffs. The waves were expected to reach heights of 60 feet, making conditions very hazardous.

Officials emphasized the risks of being near the water during such storms. They reminded people that large waves can sweep across beaches unexpectedly. The safety of the public is a top priority during these dangerous weather events.
Community Response
Residents in Santa Cruz reacted to the news with shock and concern. Many people came to see the damage for themselves. Local businesses also felt the impact of the collapse. The wharf is home to many small shops and restaurants, and the closure affects their operations.
One local resident, who witnessed the chaos, described the scene as “total mayhem.” The combination of powerful waves and the collapse created a tense atmosphere. People were worried about the safety of the workers and the integrity of the wharf.
Next Steps
As the city assesses the damage, officials will continue to monitor the condition of the wharf. Building inspectors will evaluate the remaining structure to ensure it is safe. The wharf will remain closed until further notice, and all non-emergency traffic has been restricted.

Mayor Keeley affirmed the city’s commitment to safety, stating, “We’re taking this a step at a time right now.” The focus will be on securing the area and preventing further accidents.
Conclusion
The collapse of the Santa Cruz Wharf serves as a reminder of the power of nature. Storms can cause significant damage, and safety must always come first. Fortunately, the quick actions of lifeguards and emergency responders prevented a tragedy. As the community comes together to recover, it is essential to heed warnings and stay safe during severe weather conditions.