California surfers delight in ‘really sick’ massive waves bashing coast

Stormy weather and exceptionally high tides have brought flooding and evacuations – and a surfing bonanza

Stormy weather and exceptionally high tides have brought the largest waves in years crashing down on California’s shores, with some reaching heights of 30ft (9 metres) or more.

The conditions triggered flooding and evacuations, and caused injuries and damage in coastal towns. But they’ve also created a bonanza for surfers, who have thrown themselves headlong into the powerful swells in recent days.