Days of powerful surf, driven by Tropical Storm Marie far out in the Pacific, have left a trail of destruction along Orange County and Los Angeles County shorelines. In Dana Point, video from NewsChopper4 captured ocean‑facing decks shattered and other structures battered by waves that reached farther inland than usual.
Homes in Dana Point red‑tagged
About a dozen beachfront residences in the coastal Orange County community have been red‑tagged, meaning they are currently deemed uninhabitable until repairs are completed. Homeowners are faced with the costly task of rebuilding decks, reinforcing foundations, and addressing water damage caused by the high surf.
Long Beach and Malibu also hit
The same surf conditions have battered the Long Beach Boardwalk, prompting the evacuation of roughly 20 homes as waves surged onto the promenade. Residents there have been hurriedly stacking sandbags, boarding up windows, and taking other precautions to keep floodwaters at bay. Malibu’s shoreline reported similar damage, with beachside properties experiencing erosion and structural stress.
Storm and tide factors
Hours of rain on Sunday and Monday, combined with an elevated evening high tide, amplified the storm’s impact. The swell generated by the distant tropical system, paired with a high tide expected to exceed seven feet, pushed waves inland and intensified the risk of coastal flooding.
Advisories in effect
Local authorities have issued a high‑surf advisory and a coastal‑flood advisory that will remain in force until 11 p.m. Tuesday for portions of the Los Angeles and Orange County coasts. Forecasts call for breaking waves of six to ten feet on south‑ and southwest‑facing beaches and four to seven feet on west‑facing beaches, accompanied by strong rip and longshore currents.
What residents can do
Officials urge homeowners to continue using sandbags, securing windows, and monitoring local alerts. Those with properties directly on the shoreline should stay in touch with emergency management offices for updates on evacuation orders and assistance programs.
While the storm remains hundreds of miles offshore, its indirect effects serve as a reminder of the vulnerability coastal communities face each winter. Residents are encouraged to prepare for future surf events by reinforcing structures, maintaining proper drainage, and staying informed through local weather services.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
