Whale Washes Ashore at Santa Cruz’s Cowell Beach

A whale washed ashore at Cowell Beach in Santa Cruz on November 12, prompting an emergency response. The whale was in the water near the beach as crews arrived, and its condition was unclear.

Multiple agencies and marine safety personnel responded. Officials closed off the immediate area, using cones and tape to keep people away while responders assessed the situation.

Authorities asked the public to respect the perimeter and give crews room to work. Crowds remained near the scene, though the surrounding area had been shut down.