Dangerous rip currents forecast for Orange and San Diego county coasts

Dangerous rip currents are forecast for Orange and San Diego county beaches on Saturday, the National Weather Service said.

"Very strong currents and dangerous swimming conditions are expected," forecasters said, with surf heights expected to reach as high as 6 feet in Orange County and 8 feet in San Diego County.

Rip currents are also expected farther north. On western facing beaches in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties, surf heights could reach up to 14 feet by Sunday, forecasters said.

In the San Francisco area, surf heights could reach 15 to 18 feet.

"These large powerful waves have the potential to generate strong rip currents within the surf zone as well as dangerous sneaker waves," the weather service said.

"Please use caution when visiting Northern and Central California beaches, especially around coves or rocks. When entering coves, be sure that you have an escape route since your way-in may be cut off by rapidly surging waters blocking your escape to dry land," the weather service said.

RELATED:

Santa Ana winds predicted to raise Los Angeles-area temperatures and possibly cause damage Sunday

-- Rong-Gong Lin II

Graphic: The National Weather Service is warning of dangerous rip current conditons along the Orange and San Diego county coast. Source: National Weather Service