Powerful surf associated with Tropical Storm Rachel battered the Long Beach shoreline on Friday morning, breaking through a seawall during high tide and causing significant damage to at least one beachside home.
City response and safety measures
Long Beach building inspectors evaluated structures threatened by the high surf on Thursday. Two properties received preliminary red tags and another was issued a yellow tag in the 6400 and 6500 blocks of Seaside Walk, indicating immediate repair needs and heightened monitoring.
The city has also issued a coastal flood advisory that will remain in effect through 2 p.m. Tuesday for coastal areas of Los Angeles and Orange counties. Residents are urged to stay informed of evolving conditions, especially as a stronger southerly swell tied to Rachel is expected Sunday, potentially producing 6‑to‑9‑foot waves before easing to 3‑to‑6 feet early next week.
Weather outlook
NBC4 meteorologist Belen De Leon explained that two systems are converging: a storm moving into the Pacific Northwest and Tropical Storm Rachel approaching from the south. The combined effect is generating large swells that will skirt the coast, bringing moisture and higher surf.
In Orange County, surf heights of 3‑5 feet are forecast Friday, with occasional sets reaching 6 feet. Elevated surf and high tides are expected to create hazardous conditions along beaches in both Los Angeles and Orange counties, with strong rip currents and potential coastal flooding, especially in low‑lying areas.
What residents can do
Authorities advise beachgoers to exercise caution, heed any rip‑current warnings, and avoid coastal roads that may become inundated. Homeowners with structures near the shoreline should monitor city communications for updates on tag status and any required mitigation actions.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
