SANTA CRUZ — Three workers inspecting the Santa Cruz Wharf fell into the choppy ocean waves and had to be rescued after part of the structure collapsed Monday, said city officials who fear the next storm could cause more damage. Two of the victims were rescued from the waters by lifeguards and a third self-rescued, officials said.

The famed Santa Cruz Wharf on the California coast will remain indefinitely closed until further notice after part collapsed this week with city leaders fearing for its future due to growing effects of climate change.

Santa Cruz Mayor Fred Keeley reiterated in a news conference that in the coming days, the city’s focus will remain on the immediate response and cleanup effort. However, he added, the city

The collapse added to a long history of ocean waves beating back and outright destroying landmarks along the Monterey Bay coastline known for its pristine beauty.

A bench memorializing David at the end of the Santa Cruz Wharf was swept away when high swells caused the end of the pier to collapse. "For us, it means everything," his mother Roberta Rodriguez said.

Santa Cruz, California, USA Info from Licensor: "Restroom building at the end of the wharf collapsed and floated to the river mouth."

A part of the Santa Cruz Wharf collapsed Monday afternoon during a high-surf warning, with authorities confirming two people had to be pulled from the water.