Tropical Storm Rachel Batters California Coast, Causing Coastal Erosion and Property Damage
Monster waves from the storm have torn away sections of a boardwalk and threaten waterfront homes, prompting officials to issue warnings and distribute sandbags.
A powerful storm, identified as Tropical Storm Rachel, has caused significant damage along the California coast, particularly in Long Beach, where waterfront properties are being battered by monster waves. The storm has led to the destruction of nearly 30 feet of a century-old boardwalk and poses a risk of collapse to nearby homes.
Officials have taped off sections of the Long Beach boardwalk with 'No Trespassing' signs. On Saturday evening, eight homes on the city's Peninsula were red-tagged, meaning they were deemed unsafe for entry. A ninth home received a yellow tag, allowing occupants to retrieve belongings but not stay overnight. These tags are subject to change based on ongoing inspections, which are scheduled to occur twice daily.
Footage from Friday night captured towering swells crashing against a home, reaching its second-story windows. Sections of buildings and debris from the boardwalk have been swept into the ocean. Floodwaters have inundated nearby streets and patios, causing damage to properties.
Mayor Rex Richardson stated that this is an unusual situation, marking the third hurricane to impact the area in just six weeks, following Hurricane Marie and Hurricane Polo. He noted that Rachel is bringing higher tides and more surf, exacerbating erosion and property damage along the coastline.
The National Weather Service issued a coastal flood warning for Los Angeles County beaches from Friday afternoon through Sunday at 3 p.m., anticipating waves of four to seven feet. Forecasters also expect deteriorating conditions on Sunday due to strong winds, rain, and elevated ocean water levels. High tides exceeding seven feet are predicted for the mornings.
Long Beach officials have closed vehicle access to the Peninsula to residents only and are urging others to avoid the area over the weekend to allow city crews clear access for critical work. The Weather Service has warned of potential damage to beach roads and structures, as well as significant beach erosion.
Local authorities distributed 7,600 sandbags to assist residents in protecting their properties. Long Beach Fire Department Assistant Chief Jake Heflin indicated that an unprecedented high tide, potentially reaching 7.8 to 8 feet, could have citywide impacts beyond just the Peninsula and Naples.
Showers are expected to continue from Saturday night through Tuesday night. Residents and visitors have been advised to stay away from beaches, coastal walkways, and vulnerable structures, and motorists have been warned not to drive through floodwaters or around barricades.