Beach hazards statement affecting Los Angeles County beaches until Friday night

Catalina/Santa Barbara Islands, Malibu, Los Angeles County Beaches and Ventura County Beaches are included in a beach hazards statement issued by the National Weather Service on Thursday at 2:03 a.m. The statement is valid from 4 a.m. until Friday Jan. 9, at 9 p.m.

“Dangerous rip currents and breaking waves due to elevated surf expected,” according to the NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA. “Surf heights of 3 to 6 feet with local sets to 7 feet are expected.”

“There is an increased risk of ocean drowning.