upper waypoint

Big Waves Return, But Why Now?

Save ArticleSave Article
Failed to save article

Please try again

Bodyboarders catch big waves in Newport Beach, California, July 24, 2009. (Photo: David McNew/Getty Images)

The three-month window in which the annual, spontaneous Mavericks Invitational surf contest will be held has officially opened.

A high-surf advisory is in effect for the San Francisco shoreline.

Beaches have become danger zones.

All signs point to it  … it’s Big Wave Time!

Just as we have the last few years at this time, we’d like to take this opportunity to point you to a fantastic episode of KQED’s Quest that explores the science of big waves.

Sponsored

What causes these monstrous walls of water? How are they formed? When do they typically happen?

And why do some seemingly ignore the natural human instinct for self preservation by surfing these waves?

lower waypoint
next waypoint
Stunning Archival Photos of the 1906 Earthquake and FireCould Protesters Who Shut Down Golden Gate Bridge Be Charged With False Imprisonment?San Francisco Sues Oakland Over Plan to Change Airport NameAfter Parole, ICE Deported This Refugee Back to a Country He Never KnewAlameda County DA Charges 3 Police Officers With Manslaughter in Death of Mario GonzalezDeath Doula Alua Arthur on How and Why to Prepare for the EndHow a Pivotal Case on Homelessness Could Redefine Policies in California and the NationGaza Aid Flotilla to Include Bay Area ResidentsDespite Progress, Black Californians Still Face Major Challenges In Closing Equality GapCalifornia Pet Owners Could Rent Apartments More Easily Under New Bill