Santa Cruz wharf in California collapses in Pacific storm; 3 fall into ocean | Video | World News

Part of the Santa Cruz Pier in the US state of California was damaged on Monday during a strong storm, forcing the rescue of two people, while a third person was able to swim to safety.

The collapse occurred when the Central Coast was hit by heavy surf from a large storm, which is expected to bring hurricane-force winds to the Pacific Northwest.

Videos that appeared on social media showed part of the pier washing away in the water as waves hit the coast.

Residents near Santa Cruz Pier, about 70 miles south of San Francisco, were warned to avoid low-lying beach areas as the storm intensifies. Authorities also evacuated guests from ocean-view rooms at a waterfront hotel in the nearby Capitola area, and instructed residents of the commercial area to either shelter in place or leave.

Rescue operation

Rescuers rescued two people after part of the pier collapsed, though no serious injuries were reported, Santa Cruz Mayor Fred Kelly said in an Associated Press report.

The pier was undergoing a $4 million renovation after it was damaged by storms last winter. The collapsed section that was closed for repairs included restrooms and the “Dolphin” restaurant. It drifted about half a mile down the coast and came to rest at the mouth of the San Lorenzo River.

The Santa Cruz Pier was built in 1914 and has been featured in a number of films, including The Lost Boys.

The collapse occurred around 12:45 p.m. (local time), and about 150 feet of the dock fell into the water. Officials said the area will remain closed indefinitely due to the dangers posed by the debris. The collapse marks one year since another local pier, the Seacliff State Beach Pier, was destroyed by severe winter storms.

California’s central coast is expected to see ocean rises of up to 60 feet as the storm intensifies. Forecasters also warned of dangerous surf conditions along the West Coast, with waves up to 30 feet high expected in Oregon and Washington.

The National Weather Service warned the public to stay out of the water due to dangerous conditions.