"Santa Cruz Faces Coastal Evacuations and Wharf Damage Amid High Surf and Heavy Rains"

Santa Cruz officials are urging people to stay away from the coast on Saturday due to predicted high swells and tides after massive waves already caused damage to the Santa Cruz Wharf and prompted closures of beaches and parts of West Cliff Drive. The Wharf, while partially reopened, has structural issues and the Dolphin restaurant remains closed for repairs. Emergency responders are hindered by public crowding and are emphasizing safety, asking the public to respect closures and avoid the coast until conditions improve in the afternoon.