Los Cabos beaches stay closed under black flag due to Rachel's surf

Beaches in Los Cabos remain closed to swimmers under a black flag, meaning entering the ocean is completely prohibited. The municipal Federal Maritime-Terrestrial Zone office (ZOFEMAT) is keeping the preventive closure in place because of high surf and dangerous currents linked to Hurricane Rachel, with no reopening date.

The closure will last until conditions are safe, the city agency said. It applies to beaches across the municipality, including Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo and the tourist corridor.

Waves up to 6 meters

According to the forecast released by the state government on Friday, October 2, Rachel, now a Category 3 hurricane, will generate waves of 4 to 6 meters in the area, along with wind gusts of 60 to 70 km/h.

Even as the hurricane moves away from land, the swell it produces can reach the coast for several days. A sunny beach is not a sign of a calm sea.

What authorities ask

Héctor Hugo Agúndez Cota, municipal ZOFEMAT coordinator, asked residents and visitors to follow lifeguards' instructions, stay out of the water and keep informed through official channels.

How to read beach flags

• Black: entering the water is prohibited. This is the current flag.
• Red: high risk; swimming not recommended.
• Yellow: caution.
• Green: safe for swimming.

Practical tips

• Stay away from jetties, breakwaters and rocks: swells can sweep people off the shoreline.
• If you have guests or visitors, tell them about the closure; many tourists don't know the flag system.
• Fishers and boat operators should check Port Authority notices before heading out.
• For any emergency on the coast, dial 9-1-1.