El Niño week

It's a stormy week here in America's Finest. An El Niño system is hitting the west coast with rain, winds, a big swell, you name it. Yesterday we even had a tornado watch, which I believe is a first since I've been here.

But this morning broke very bright and sunny. I went to La Jolla to see whether the big waves were hitting the coast. Indeed they were, and before long the wave-watchers showed up too. I may have more weather photos for you later in the week. Click the images to see them larger.
Access to the breakwater was closed off due to the high waves. The seals have climbed pretty far up the beach.

Most folks stuck to the walkway off the cliffs, watching the high surf from afar.

Only one surfer ventured out into La Jolla Cove Wednesday morning when I was there. He took one ride in the hour I watched him, and got a faceful of water kicked back by the onshore breeze.