Pacifica, California — A California woman is recovering after a frightening encounter with a powerful sneaker wave that dragged her into the Pacific Ocean, an incident that was captured on camera and serves as a stark reminder of the dangers lurking along the coastline.
The dramatic rescue unfolded Tuesday near Pacifica Pier, where 47-year-old Bae Cadotte had been fishing when an unexpected wave suddenly surged ashore, sweeping her into the water.
The terrifying incident was recorded by a nearby webcam, showing the moment the wave struck and pulled her away from the shoreline.
Unexpected Wave Pulled Woman Into the Ocean
Cadotte said she was fishing along the beach south of Pacifica Pier when the powerful wave arrived without warning.
Within seconds, she was knocked off her feet and dragged approximately 30 feet into the ocean. Describing the experience later, she compared it to being trapped inside a washing machine.
“It felt like I was tumbling in a washing machine,” Cadotte said.
As the water carried her away from shore, she quickly realized the seriousness of the situation.
“It just swallowed me,” she said. “I knew at that point she came- I was going in. She’s going to get me. No way I’m getting out of this.”
The force of the wave left her unable to control where she was going as she was tossed through the turbulent surf.
A Prayer During a Life-Threatening Moment
Faced with the overwhelming power of the ocean, Cadotte said she made a conscious decision not to fight the current. Instead, she focused on staying calm and praying.
“I closed my eyes, I said a prayer- God, if this is your will, I understand, but please don’t let me leave my son.”
After spending several frightening moments in the water, she eventually resurfaced and was able to remain afloat long enough for help to arrive.
The experience left her shaken but grateful to be alive.
Nearby Anglers Help Save Her Life
Fortunately, other fishermen in the area witnessed what happened and immediately sprang into action. The group threw a rope toward Cadotte and worked together to pull her safely back to shore.
Once back on land, she thanked the people who helped save her.
“Thanks for risking your life to save mine.”
Emergency responders arrived shortly afterward and transported her to Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital. Doctors treated her for hypothermia and what she described as “ocean whiplash.”
She has since returned home and continues recovering.
Sneaker Waves Continue to Pose Serious Threat
Cadotte’s close call is one of several recent ocean rescue incidents reported along the California coast.
Authorities have responded to multiple emergencies involving powerful waves in recent months, including incidents at Baker Beach in San Francisco, Santa Cruz, and Laguna Beach.
Some of those encounters ended tragically. Experts warn that sneaker waves can be especially dangerous because they often occur without obvious warning signs.
Unlike normal waves, they can suddenly surge much farther up a beach than expected, catching people off guard even during calm weather conditions.
Why Sneaker Waves Are So Dangerous
Sneaker waves are most common along coastlines with steep underwater drop-offs, including portions of Northern California, the Pacific Northwest, and other rugged coastal regions.
Researchers estimate that only a small percentage of ocean waves develop into rogue or sneaker waves, making them difficult to predict.
However, their rarity does not reduce their danger.
Because these waves can strike suddenly and with tremendous force, officials encourage beachgoers, anglers, photographers, and sightseers to remain alert near the water’s edge at all times.
Cadotte’s survival serves as a powerful reminder that even experienced visitors can find themselves in danger when facing the unpredictable power of the ocean.
Have you ever witnessed a sneaker wave or dangerous ocean conditions firsthand? Share your experience and safety tips respectfully in the comments below.
