The Wedge is one of the most iconic waves in California. Hell, it’s one of the most iconic waves in the world, but the last few months have taken a real toll on the place. Brent Weldon, a guy who has seen the many moods of the Wedge over the years, is shocked by how much the beach has changed — especially within the last few weeks alone.
Two things are happening: El Niño is ramping up, creating huge swell events that are yanking the sand back to the ocean. On top of that, there’s a Kelvin wave and exceptionally high king tides. Add those three things together and you’ve got a recipe for disaster.
“After weeks of massive waves, coastal flooding, and relentless beach erosion, Newport Beach’s most famous surf spot is nearly unrecognizable,” Weldon wrote on October 23. “Today, I returned to the Wedge to document the dramatic changes along the coastline. Massive amounts of sand have disappeared, exposing areas that were once buried beneath the beach. Trees, lifeguard towers, and familiar landmarks now reveal just how much the shoreline has changed.”
Officials have been trying to hold back the brunt of Mother Nature’s fury, but they’re fighting a losing battle.
“City crews have been working around the clock, bringing in truckloads of sand and using heavy equipment to protect the coastline as unusually high tides and dangerous ocean conditions continue to threaten Southern California,” Weldon continued. “Is this just another temporary change to the Wedge, or are we witnessing a permanent transformation of one of the world’s most iconic surf spots?”
Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: this is going to be one hell of a winter for Newport Beach residents and Wedge surfers.
