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.

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.

Heavy surf destroyed a portion of the famed Santa Cruz Wharf, sending three workers into the water. Watch video of the harrowing incident.

The section of the Santa Cruz wharf was closed to the public because it has been under repairs — part of a $4-million renovation project planned for the pier.