Newport Beach Closes Beaches and Piers Amidst Severe Flooding
Authorities issue urgent warnings and work to reinforce sand berms as Tropical Storm Rachel impacts Southern California coast.
Newport Beach has closed all its beaches and piers as powerful waves and ongoing flooding overwhelm the coastal city. Officials issued an urgent order Saturday, warning that conditions were worsening and urging the public to stay clear of affected areas due to serious safety risks.
Crews are actively working to reinforce sand berms that protect the shoreline, with concerns about further inundation during the next high tide. The city declared a local emergency Friday in anticipation of Tropical Storm Rachel's impact, which has already caused seawater to surge across the Balboa Peninsula, threatening homes, streets, and businesses.
"We're planning for the worst," Newport Beach City Manager Seimone Jurjis stated Friday night, detailing the city's efforts to bolster coastal defenses. Mayor Lauren Kleiman, alongside police and fire officials, advised residents to prepare for potential flooding.
The National Weather Service has issued a coastal flood warning for Orange County beaches, effective through Sunday afternoon. The warning anticipates significant flooding and beach erosion due to elevated ocean levels, strong onshore winds, and building swells. The most critical conditions are expected near high tide, with tides potentially exceeding 7 feet, which could combine with powerful surf to inundate low-lying areas. Waves are predicted to range from 5 to 7 feet, with gusts up to 9 feet.
Newport Beach has deployed teams to rebuild sand berms, operate pumps, and manage tidal valves to aid in draining flooded streets. Residents are advised to move vehicles to higher ground, use sandbags to protect properties, and avoid driving through flooded areas or around barricades.