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The Express Gazette
Wednesday, October 7, 2026

Hurricane Rachel Shifts Course, Now Targeting Southern California

Forecasters predict the weakening storm could make landfall early Sunday near San Diego, potentially bringing heavy rain and coastal surge.

US Politics • 2 hours ago
Hurricane Rachel Shifts Course, Now Targeting Southern California

Hurricane Rachel has unexpectedly shifted its trajectory and is now heading towards Southern California, with forecasters predicting it could make landfall early Sunday as a post-tropical storm. The current forecast indicates a landfall point approximately 100 miles south of San Diego, though the storm's path could extend as far north as Orange County.

Residents across Southern California and desert communities are advised to monitor weather updates as the situation develops. A significant weather system moving in from the northwest is expected to influence Rachel's path, pushing it toward the Baja California peninsula and then inland to Southern California.

While the storm is projected to weaken as it approaches the coast due to cooler ocean waters and drier air, its potential impact remains a concern. Forecasters emphasize that the storm's track and intensity are subject to change in the coming days, and the exact timing and location of landfall are still uncertain.

Satellite image of a hurricane swirling in the ocean.

The National Weather Service is closely monitoring the storm and providing advisories to the public. Authorities are urging residents to stay informed and prepare for potential heavy rainfall, strong winds, and coastal storm surge risks associated with the storm's passage.


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