Los Cabos authorities have raised red flags at 47 beaches across the municipality as a powerful ground swell, known locally as mar de fondo, continues to produce waves up to 2.5 meters (about 8 feet) and dangerous rip currents along the coastline.
Rafael Álvarez Munguía, coordinator of the Federal Maritime Land Zone (Zofemat), said the hazardous conditions are expected to persist for several more days. Lifeguards are maintaining permanent watch at all monitored beaches, and swimmers are being told to stay out of the water at any beach flying a red or black flag.
Which Beaches Are Affected
The most dangerous conditions are concentrated along the Pacific side and the San José del Cabo corridor. Beaches with red flags include Acapulquito, Costa Azul, Las Palmas, Migriño, El Tule, and Las Viudas. Swimming in the Sea of Cortez has also been restricted due to the swell’s reach.
Officials warn that the swell generates both rip currents that pull swimmers out to sea and trough currents that drag them parallel to shore. Even experienced swimmers face rapid muscle fatigue in these conditions. Unpredictable swells also pose risks to small watercraft, including jet skis and tour boats.
What the Flag Colors Mean
Zofemat lifeguards post colored flags at each beach to communicate real-time water conditions. Green means conditions are relatively calm. Yellow means swimmers should exercise caution due to moderate currents.
A red flag means swimming is strictly prohibited because of high surf and strong currents. A black flag is the highest warning level: it means the beach and water are completely closed to the public. During a swell event like this one, red and black flags can stay up for entire days, even when skies are sunny.
A Common and Deadly Mistake
Authorities note that seeing other people in the water does not mean the beach is safe. Invisible undercurrents can pull swimmers offshore without warning. Rip currents are a leading cause of drowning in Los Cabos, and conditions can shift from calm to hazardous in minutes during a ground swell.
Beachgoers should check flag colors before entering the water, follow lifeguard instructions without exception, and avoid swimming after heavy meals or alcohol consumption. Resort guests can ask hotel staff which nearby beaches, if any, are open for swimming on a given day.
This story was first reported by the Los Cabos municipal government at loscabos.gob.mx.