More big waves expected to pound California coast, high surf warnings in effect until 2 p.m.

Powerful waves were again expected to thrash the Northern California coastline Saturday, with high surf and coastal flood warnings in effect until at least 2 p.m.

Santa Cruz County beaches were forecast to see the biggest waves — potentially as high as 40 feet at some spots — though the swell was not expected to be as intense as the storm surge that slammed the area earlier this week, damaging some oceanfront businesses.

The National Weather Service advised people to stay away from beaches during the warnings, which cover the entire Bay Area, Santa Cruz County and Monterey coastlines. West-facing beaches were expected to be the hardest hit.

“These larger waves can come out of nowhere and be a lot bigger than you think they are,” said weather service meteorologist,” Dalton Behringer.

The swell was forecast to gradually increase through the morning before tapering off in the afternoon. Moderate rain showers were expected throughout the day across the region.

“This afternoon thing should start to ramp down pretty quick,” Behringer said. “Showers, clean air, things should start to get pretty nice this evening.”