Hailstorm Turns Sandy Beach White In California

A fast-moving storm has dumped enough hail on Southern California's "Surf City" to turn one of its sandy beaches white.

At least an inch (2.5cm) of hail coated Huntington Beach on Monday, the National Weather Service said.

The rare wintry blast was the second storm to hit the area in several days.

Brianna Burkhart, who works at a restaurant on the city pier, said the sky suddenly turned dark and then opened up.

When it was all over, the beach was completely white and it looked like it had snowed, she said.

A smattering of hail was also reported to the north on Venice Beach.

Pilots also reported seeing funnel clouds over the ocean, about 25 miles (40km) offshore.