Tropical Storm Rachel Remnants Hit Southwest With Flood Risks

Remnants of Tropical Storm Rachel are soaking Southern California and the Desert Southwest after moving over land early Sunday, bringing coastal flooding, heavy rain and strong winds on Oct. 10, 2026, as the system threatens flash flooding across the region.

According to CNN Weather, a Level 3 of 4 threat for flooding rainfall was issued for southern Nevada, including Las Vegas, southwest Utah and northwest Arizona, where numerous flash flood events are expected.

San Diego and Las Vegas could receive an inch or more of rain from the storm, according to CNN Weather. The rainfall would be about double San Diego's usual October total and triple Las Vegas' typical October rainfall.

Peak wind gusts around San Diego were expected early Sunday, ranging from 20 to 40 mph at lower elevations and 50 to 60 mph in mountain areas, according to CNN Weather. San Diego was under a tropical storm watch on Saturday for only the second time on record.

The National Hurricane Center warned of dangerous surf and rip currents along Southern California and northern Baja California through Monday as coastal flooding remained a concern.

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

Coastal flooding concerns increased because water levels were already elevated in California, according to the National Hurricane Center. The agency said recent high waves, unusually high tides and a near-record strong super El Niño event contributed to higher-than-average coastal water levels.

"Major coastal flooding has already been occurring in some areas, with observed water levels running as much as 1.5 feet above predictions," stated the National Hurricane Center.

The National Hurricane Center said hazardous coastal conditions are expected to continue next week as the system dissipates over the southwestern states.