Search ongoing for woman swept out to sea at Panther State Beach

Authorities in Central California are conducting a search for a woman who was reportedly swept out to sea by a wave at Panther State Beach, according to CBS News Bay Area.

The Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office said deputies responded to the beach around 8 p.m. Sunday after a group of friends was knocked over by an incoming tide. A woman in her 20s was believed to have been swept out to sea during the incident.

Cal Fire San Mateo-Santa Cruz Unit reported that four people had gone through the keyhole on the beach and became trapped when the tide rose. Three managed to reach safety, but the woman did not escape.

An extensive search is underway involving drones, ground crews, and helicopters. The National Weather Service has issued a beach hazards statement for the coast due to sneaker waves and strong rip currents, with waves between 12 and 16 feet.

Authorities have asked anyone with information about the woman's whereabouts to contact the Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office.