Tropical Storm Rachel Drives Coastal Flooding Across Southern California

Tropical Storm Rachel triggered coastal flooding preparations across Southern California on Saturday as Newport Beach closed piers and the Wedge while Long Beach faced damaged coastal structures, with officials warning of further impacts from high tides, rain and strong winds.

According to the National Weather Service, coastal flood warnings covered Orange County and Los Angeles County beaches through Sunday afternoon, with high tides expected to reach about 7.3 to 7.5 feet along the Los Angeles County coast.

Long Beach officials said waves damaged a protective bulkhead, flooded streets and affected waterfront properties near the Peninsula. The city reported 7,600 sandbags were distributed for the latest storm, bringing the total from three recent storms to about 15,000.

Long Beach Peninsula resident Brian Gerrard described the damage as crews and residents faced repairs after powerful waves reached the community.

"It’s bad. It’s going to be a lot of things to fix when this is over," said Brian Gerrard, Long Beach Peninsula resident.

Gerrard also described the severity of the storm after waves damaged areas near the waterfront. His comments came as officials continued assessing conditions ahead of additional coastal impacts.

"It’s a once-in-a-lifetime storm. Who’s prepared for that?" said Brian Gerrard, Long Beach Peninsula resident.

Long Beach officials continued monitoring damaged areas near East Ocean Boulevard and 68th Place, where footage showed waves hitting the boardwalk and debris offshore.

City spokesman Laath Martin provided an update on structural assessments after wave activity damaged buildings along the Alamitos Peninsula.

"Building crews are currently assessing damage and impacts seen from wave activity this morning," said Laath Martin, Long Beach spokesman.

Martin's statement followed city reports that two structures received red tags and three received yellow tags after inspectors reviewed storm damage.

Resident Jim Gesner said he moved belongings to higher ground as a precaution after previous flooding concerns on the Peninsula.

"I feel really bad for my neighbors who have property on the beach. They’re losing their houses," said Jim Gesner, Long Beach Peninsula resident.

Gesner said city crews were working to remove ocean water from flooded areas as residents watched conditions near Ocean Boulevard.

"I think they’re doing what they can at the moment," said Jim Gesner, Long Beach Peninsula resident.

The National Weather Service forecast additional rainfall across Southern California, including possible flash flooding in mountain areas and near wildfire burn scars. Wind gusts of 25 to 45 mph were expected in coastal and inland areas, with stronger gusts near mountain ridges.

The National Hurricane Center warned of dangerous surf conditions affecting Southern California and northern Baja California as Rachel moved toward northern Baja California. The storm had maximum sustained winds of 60 mph and was moving northeast at 22 mph.

"Life-threatening surf and rip current conditions" are likely along the coasts of Southern California and northern Baja California, according to the National Hurricane Center.