Southern California beachgoers see dangerous Labor Day currents, powerful waves

While Labor Day is often a big-time beach day for many in Southern California, forecasters warned beachgoers to use caution in the ocean on Monday due to powerful waves and rip currents. 

The National Weather Service issued a Marine Weather Statement along the Southern California coast south of Santa Barbara County. The advisory coincides with a heat advisory the agency issued for Monday and much of Tuesday, which is expected to see triple-digit temperatures in inland parts of the region.

In the ocean waters, swimmers can expect "choppy seas, gusty erratic winds and the potential for cloud-to-sea lightning," the agency warns. Conditions were predicted to be at their most dangerous between Point Mugu in Ventura County and Malibu.

"There is an increased risk of ocean drowning," the NWS. "Rip currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea. Waves can wash people off beaches and rocks, and capsize small boats near shore."

The NWS advised swimmers to stay near lifeguards on the beach.

In all, Orange County officials told CBS News Los Angeles that nearly 250 people were rescued from rip currents at south-facing beaches on Monday alone.