Surfers Brave NYC Nor'easter, Catching Waves Amid Storm Warnings
Approximately 20 surfers ignored official warnings and took to the hazardous conditions off Rockaway Beach during a significant storm.
Despite high winds and flooding battering New York City, dozens of surfers were observed braving the dangerous conditions off Rockaway Beach in Queens. Around 20 individuals reportedly ignored official warnings and took to the water, drawn by the large swells generated by a powerful nor'easter.
The surfers gathered near Beach 91st Street, catching waves estimated to be as high as 12 feet. Among them was Preston Head, 35, who traveled from Laguna Beach, California, specifically for the extreme surf. Head's board, however, was broken in two by the powerful waves.
"The wave broke my surf board," Head stated, adding that he experienced "some of the best barrels that I’ve ever experienced in my life."
Local surfers also participated, including Ron McMaster, 29, a software engineer from Queens, and Ryo Kuroki, 30, from Manhattan. McMaster described the conditions as "dangerous" and noted that such days can lead to fatalities if surfers are washed into rocks.
Kuroki commented that the waves were "twice as tall" as him and that he and McMaster "know what we are doing." He also suggested that "surfing is a sport about rebelling."
Governor Kathy Hochul had issued multiple warnings urging the public to stay away from coastal areas due to the severe risks posed by rip currents and high surf, which she described as making ocean entry "life-threatening."
"A dangerous nor’easter is already bearing down on the coastal areas of Long Island, New York City and Westchester County," Hochul said in a statement. "This storm poses a significant risk, and I urge New Yorkers to stay informed, stay prepared and stay safe this weekend."
Other beachgoers, like Bobby Gonzalez, a part-time school aide from the area, found the conditions too challenging. Gonzalez reported that the waves were "enormous" and "exhausting just trying to get out there," ultimately leading him to abandon his attempt to surf. Despite this, he expressed intent to try again if conditions improved later in the weekend.