The iconic Santa Cruz Wharf, a beloved landmark on California’s central coast, partially collapsed on Monday morning, December 23, 2024, as powerful waves from a severe winter storm pounded the region. The incident, which occurred during ongoing construction work, sent three workers plunging into the frigid waters below.
Emergency crews responded quickly to the collapse, which took place near the midsection of the historic pier. Witnesses described a terrifying scene as a section of the wharf crumbled under relentless waves. Santa Cruz Fire Department Chief Robert Young confirmed that the workers were wearing safety harnesses, which helped prevent more serious injuries. All three were rescued and taken to a local hospital for evaluation.
Still, flood warnings remained in place, with officials cautioning folks to stay away from the water. “We are anticipating that what is coming toward us is more serious than what was there this morning,” said Fred Keeley, mayor of the city of Santa Cruz, CNN reported.
The Santa Cruz Wharf, built in 1914, has weathered over a century of storms but has recently been undergoing renovations to improve its structural integrity. Monday’s collapse highlights the challenges of maintaining such a historic structure in the face of increasingly severe weather events.
Local officials have cited the storm, which brought gale-force winds and waves over 20 feet high, as a major factor in the collapse. The wharf, stretching nearly half a mile into Monterey Bay, is a major tourist attraction featuring shops, restaurants, and fishing spots. Portions of the pier have been closed for construction in recent months, and city officials are urging residents and visitors to avoid the area until further notice.
“Due to life-threatening conditions, please avoid all beaches including coastal overlook areas such as rocks, jetties or cliffs,” a public safety alert read, KRON 4 reported. “Dangerous and powerful waves can sweep across entire beaches unexpectedly. Do not enter the water, and do not cross the flooded streets along the coast.”
Environmental concerns are also mounting as debris from the collapse, including wooden planks and construction materials, spreads into the bay. Local environmental groups have expressed worries about potential harm to marine life. Cleanup efforts are underway to minimize the impact.
This latest incident adds to a growing list of challenges for California’s coastline, which has been battered by increasingly intense storms fueled by climate change. The state has been under a series of flood warnings, and Santa Cruz County has seen significant damage to infrastructure in recent days.
The collapse has sparked conversations about the future of historic structures like the Santa Cruz Wharf in an era of unpredictable weather. For now, the focus remains on repairing the damage and ensuring the safety of the community.