Long Beach fire personnel seized the brief window of low tide on Tuesday to reinforce the city’s shoreline ahead of what could become record‑breaking high tides along the peninsula. The effort focused on building massive sand berms in strategic locations to shield homes and streets from the anticipated surge.
Sand berms erected amid rising waters
According to the Long Beach Fire Department, tide levels have already topped 8 feet, surpassing the 6‑foot heights experts originally forecast. Crews worked through the night, hauling sand and shaping berms near 54th Place, Bayshore Beach and other vulnerable stretches.
“The sand berms, they’re doing only what they can do,” said resident Austin Ocampo, who lives in the affected community. “But once that tide starts getting pretty high, homes are going to be at risk for full flooding.”
Gaps remain in protection
While the berms provide a barrier in many spots, a noticeable gap near 66th Place leaves a section of the coastline exposed. Long‑time resident Mary Riddick warned, “They are building berms every day, but that one spot is vulnerable.” The city continues to monitor the situation and adjust its response as water levels rise.
Impact on residents
Despite the proactive measures, floodwaters have already spilled onto neighborhood streets, forcing drivers to turn around and prompting the city to issue a warning against traveling through inundated areas. Ocampo noted the personal toll, adding, “The guy who lives below me, he’s, I think, he’s 87, and he’s moving on Thursday. He has been there 20 years. It’s pretty rough.”
City officials emphasized that the ongoing construction of berms is a temporary mitigation while longer‑term solutions are explored. They urged residents to stay informed, avoid damaged zones, and refrain from driving through flooded streets until conditions improve.
Looking ahead
More high tide is expected Tuesday morning, and the fire department will remain on standby to respond to any additional flooding. The city’s emergency management team continues to coordinate with state and federal partners to ensure resources are available should the tides reach unprecedented levels.
Long Beach residents are encouraged to follow official updates via the city’s website and social media channels, and to report any hazardous conditions to 911 or the non‑emergency line.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
