Hurricane Marie Brings Flooding and Dangerous Surf to Southern California

LOS ANGELES — Hurricane Marie is bringing dangerous surf, heavy rain and coastal flooding to Southern California, with waves reaching up to 10 feet in some areas. The storm remains offshore, but hazardous conditions are affecting beaches and coastal communities. Here’s what to know about the latest impacts!

Hurricane Marie hits Southern California

Hurricane Marie Brings Dangerous Surf to Southern California 

Hurricane Marie is generating unusually large swells along the Southern California coast, even as the storm remains well offshore. 

Surf reached up to 10 feet at some south-facing beaches, while strong currents made conditions dangerous for swimmers and surfers.

The National Weather Service warned of life-threatening rip currents along much of the coast. 

Large breaking waves can pull swimmers away from shore, knock people off rocks and beaches, and create hazardous conditions for small boats near the coastline.

The rough surf was especially noticeable across beaches in Los Angeles, Orange and San Diego counties during the Labor Day weekend. 

At Newport Beach, lifeguards carried out 177 rescues on Saturday as dangerous ocean conditions drew large crowds to the coast.

Officials urged beachgoers to stay out of the water unless they are experienced and to remain near lifeguards if they choose to swim. 

People were also advised to avoid jetties, rocks and exposed coastal areas, where sudden waves and powerful currents can be especially hazardous.

A wave surges over a small retaining wall in Long Beach, California, on September 6

Check the latest wind, rain and hourly weather conditions in Los Angeles before heading out. 

Heavy Rain and Coastal Flooding Hit Southern California 

Hurricane Marie also brought an unusual burst of September rain to Southern California, with showers spreading across Los Angeles County on Sunday. 

Rainfall totals generally ranged from about 0.25 to 0.75 inches, while some locations recorded more than an inch over the 48-hour period.

The rain combined with high tides and large swells to produce coastal flooding in Long Beach, Seal Beach and other low-lying areas. 

In Long Beach, ocean water flowed over coastal barriers and into streets and nearby properties. 

Flooding was also reported around parking lots and homes in Seal Beach.

The wet conditions also made roads slick, contributing to crashes and other disruptions across the region. 

Authorities issued flood advisories for parts of Los Angeles County, including areas near recent burn scars, where runoff can create additional hazards.

Seal Beach workers pump floodwater away from homes during Hurricane Marie on September 6. 

Check the hourly precipitation forecast in Long Beach to stay informed about changing coastal weather. 

Hurricane Marie Impacts to Continue Through Tuesday 

Although Hurricane Marie is weakening and remains offshore, its effects along the Southern California coast are expected to linger through Tuesday. 

The National Weather Service has kept high surf advisories in effect through late Tuesday, with large swells and strong rip currents continuing along beaches in Los Angeles, Orange and San Diego counties.

Rain is expected to gradually taper, but spotty showers may still occur as moisture from Marie moves away from the region. 

Coastal flooding and hazardous beach conditions should also ease as the storm weakens and moves farther offshore.

The National Weather Service issued high surf advisories

Officials continue to urge residents and visitors to check local advisories before heading to the coast. 

Even after the rain decreases, lingering surf and rip currents can remain dangerous for swimmers, surfers and anyone near exposed beaches or coastal structures.

Stay ahead of changing conditions. Check San Diego’s 7-day forecast for the latest rain, wind and temperature updates before heading to the coast. 

References

1. AP News

2. Forbes

3. The NY Post

4. OnScene.TV