Dangerous rip currents have prompted warnings at Southern California beaches after lifeguards rescued more than 400 people swept away by strong waves on Tuesday.
Using rescue boats from Baywatch Santa Monica and Baywatch Del Rey, Los Angeles County lifeguards pulled 18 people from the waters at Venice Beach in one operation about 2:30 p.m. after a strong rip current dragged them away from the shore all at the same time.
“It’s scary because you don’t want to lose anybody,” lifeguard Capt. Kenichi Haskett said.
Tuesday’s rescue at Venice Beach was one of the largest groups lifeguards could recall being pulled from the water at one time.