Tropical Storm Rachel Forces California Beach Closures Amid Widespread Flooding

Tropical Storm Rachel has prompted Newport Beach, California, to close all of its beaches and piers due to widespread coastal flooding and high surf.

The decision was enacted Saturday morning as overnight conditions worsened along the Balboa Peninsula, with ocean water levels elevated and surf exceeding seven feet.

City Manager Seimone Jurjis, acting as the City's director of emergency services, is signing a declaration of local emergency to secure additional resources. City personnel are continuing to monitor coastal conditions and deploy available resources.

In anticipation of the storm, Orange County crews worked to rebuild sand berms and deployed thousands of sandbags. Additional teams activated up to 18 pumps and a network of 86 tidal valves to drain flooded streets and prevent ocean water from backing up storm drains.

The National Weather Service has issued a coastal flood warning in effect until Sunday afternoon, followed by a coastal flood advisory until Tuesday afternoon.

Orange County Board Vice Chair Katrina Foley stated that the extreme weather conditions arrived earlier than anticipated. "Everybody got caught off guard. We didn't expect the swell to hit this early," Foley told City News Service. "We've been in the planning stages for the past few weeks, but this hit a little earlier because of Hurricane Rachel."

Foley also noted that their team has appealed to California Governor Gavin Newsom's office for National Guard assistance.

Forecasters expect an increase in ocean swells, strong onshore winds, and higher waves throughout the weekend, potentially continuing dangerous coastal conditions. Areas including Long Beach in Los Angeles County and San Onofre State Beach have also experienced similar damage and closures.

City officials are advising residents to avoid walking or driving through flooded streets and standing water, and to take precautions to protect their homes and property.