Tropical Storm Rachel Threatens Southern California With Flash Flooding and Dangerous Surf

• by Shimanta Das
• October 13, 2026

Tropical Storm Rachel is bearing down on Southern California, prompting urgent coastal evacuations and emergency preparations as forecasters warn of flash flooding, dangerous surf, and significant coastal impacts. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a coastal flood warning that remains in effect until 3 p.m. Sunday, with the most severe effects expected along south-facing beaches in Los Angeles County. “The more significant impacts are likely going to come from the coastal flooding side of things,” forecasters emphasized, noting that while widespread freshwater flooding is not anticipated, “some areas of minor roadway flooding are possible.” The National Hurricane Center (NHC) added that some areas could receive up to 5 inches of rain through Sunday, which “will continue to lead to the potential for significant flash and urban flooding.”

In Long Beach, officials have escalated their coastal emergency response, accelerating infrastructure repairs and deploying massive sandbags as the storm approaches. A mandatory evacuation order remains in place for nine buildings in the 6400 and 6500 blocks of Seaside Walk, while evacuation warnings cover additional properties on the Peninsula. Destructive waves already battered the Long Beach waterfront on Friday, causing significant damage to the Alamitos Peninsula boardwalk and waterfront homes. Crews will conduct emergency repairs and reinforcement of the boardwalk and bulkhead after high tides, with the goal to “isolate critical damage as much as possible,” according to a city statement. Newport Pier, Balboa Pier, the Wedge from the rock jetty to M Street, and the Balboa Pier parking lot also remained temporarily closed.

To fund these emergency operations, the city is tapping into a dedicated coastal fund “used to account for operations, maintenance, development and capital projects along the city’s coastal and waterfront areas.” Officials stressed that “this is not from the General Fund and not regular City emergency reserves.” As Tropical Storm Rachel continues its approach, residents are urged to stay informed, heed evacuation orders, and avoid coastal areas until conditions improve. With high surf and flooding threats persisting, the next 24 to 48 hours will be critical for protecting lives and property along Southern California’s vulnerable coastline.