Southern California Braces as Tropical Storm Rachel Approaches

Coastal Flood Warning Issued

A coastal flood warning affected beaches from Malibu to San Diego on Saturday. As Tropical Storm Rachel approached Southern California, local authorities took precautions. Long Beach implemented an evacuation order for certain oceanfront residents, while Newport Beach closed its beaches and piers.

The National Weather Service warned that south-facing beaches, particularly Long Beach and Malibu, could experience damaging sea-water flooding. The greatest impacts along the Orange and San Diego coasts were expected to occur on Sunday morning when swells, onshore winds and high tides converge.

Immediate Effects and Precautions

Long Beach’s evacuation order was mandatory for homes on Seaside Walk between 64th and 66th places. This order started at 7 p.m. Friday and would last until noon Tuesday, subject to changes based on conditions.

Ocean water flooded streets and homes due to high tide, high surf from Hurricane Rachel, and a Kelvin wave. Emergency repairs to a bulkhead were underway. Eight buildings were marked as unsafe, while another had usage restrictions.

In Newport Beach, police issued warnings about flooding, closing all beaches and piers. Local efforts included rebuilding berms, opening tide valves, and utilizing pumps to minimize flooding, although not all risks could be eliminated.

Community Impact and Reactions

Residents expressed shock at the flooding. Joe Angelo, with 60 years in the Newport Beach area, had never seen his beachfront home affected by ocean water like this. Sandbags were placed near Balboa Boulevard, yet beachgoers continued their activities despite warnings.

Chris Perkins visited to show his son the surf and emphasize ocean safety. Long Beach provided sandbags to residents, with light rain starting by midday.

Further Actions and Observations

Huntington Beach activated its emergency operations center. Despite flooding risks, spectators gathered to watch the waves at high tide. A previously flooded section appeared unaffected on Saturday.

A tropical storm watch remained in effect for San Diego County. Heavy machinery constructed sand berms on the Long Beach Peninsula in response to the weather service’s warnings about unusual conditions due to low-pressure systems and record warm ocean temperatures.

Inland regions faced flash flooding threats, with southern San Bernardino County having a significant chance of heavy rains. The primary concern was the potential for flooding, according to the National Weather Service.