After a quiet Christmas, massive waves are about to pound the California coast again. Northern California is expecting waves up to 30 feet high from Thursday to Sunday. A high-surf advisory warns people to be cautious around the water. The Bay Area will also experience temperatures around 60 degrees, rain, and fog, which could lead to local flooding. Just before Christmas, a part of the Santa Cruz Wharf collapsed due to high waves, and a man in Monterey Bay died from storm-tossed debris.

Such big waves aren't common, but they're not unexpected this time of year, according to a National Weather Service meteorologist. Despite the cold, people need to stay cautious. Winter storms caused highway flooding in Berkeley and Oakland, and a rock slide in Sonoma County. In Southern California, the weather is mild, with some high waves expected up north.

Despite lower temperatures and no rain, strong winds make driving challenging in San Fernando and San Gabriel valleys. The dry weather increases wildfire risks. Expect higher risks next week due to Santa Ana winds. A recent fire in Malibu burned over 4, 000 acres, with strong winds contributing to its rapid spread.

Waves and Storms Return to California After Holiday Break

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