Surf's up, wave riders! Hold onto your boards because today's forecast is packing some serious punch along the Southern California coastline.

Orange County and San Diego are looking at some gnarly conditions that'll test even the most seasoned surfers. We're talking high rip current risks that scream caution - these waters are not for the faint of heart.

Orange County's gonna see surf heights dancing between 3 to 5 feet with sets pushing up to 6 feet. Meanwhile, San Diego's cranking it up a notch with 4 to 6 foot waves and sets launching to a massive 7 feet. Water temperatures are hovering in the mid-50s - so you'll want that wetsuit, no exceptions.

Both regions are experiencing mixed swells coming from multiple directions - creating unpredictable and challenging wave patterns. Today's thunderstorm potential adds another wild card to the mix, so keep those eyes on the sky.

Friday looks slightly mellower for Orange County with surf dropping to 2 to 4 feet, but San Diego's keeping the intensity with continued 4 to 6 foot waves. The swell direction will shift to a more consistent 280 degrees, offering a bit more predictability.

Tides are doing their complex dance at Newport Beach and La Jolla, with multiple low and high points throughout the day. Experienced surfers will want to time their sessions carefully.

Bottom line: These are advanced conditions. Beginners should sit this one out. Intermediate and pro surfers - stay alert, respect the ocean, and make smart choices. The waves are calling, but safety comes first.

Stay stoked and stay safe out there!