Persistent high surf and flooding threats along California’s coast had residents on high alert a day after the partial collapse of a pier, which propelled three people into the Pacific Ocean. Santa Cruz Mayor Fred Keeley say officials will have to assess long-term solutions for protecting the coastal city from the impacts of climate change.

One man died and three people were thrown into the ocean after California's coast faced powerful waves and flooding Tuesday. This followed a major storm that caused widespread damage and left several people missing.

High surf warnings and advisories are in effect up and down the Southern California coast through Christmas.

Peak surf heights are expected to reach 8 to 12 feet in Los Angeles County and 12 to 18 feet in Ventura County.