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Beachfront homes destroyed as California coastal erosion and El Nino bring historic flooding
NBC News • • nation
Key Points:
- In Long Beach, California, severe coastal erosion caused by record-setting king tides, storm surges, and remnants of tropical storms has led to the destruction of beachfront properties, including Shawn Curtis's apartment which collapsed into the ocean.
- The region is experiencing early impacts of a predicted historic El Niño event, which, combined with high tides and Kelvin waves, is causing unprecedented coastal flooding and damage along Southern California's coastline.
- Local infrastructure, such as boardwalks and portions of the Pacific Coast Highway, is failing under the strain of these natural forces, with officials acknowledging that current structures were not built to withstand such conditions.
- Residents face difficult decisions about the future of coastal living as climate change accelerates sea level rise and storm intensity, raising concerns about the long-term viability of homes in vulnerable areas.
- Despite the devastation, some residents like Curtis plan to remain in the area, though many are reconsidering home purchases or moving to less exposed locations due to increasing risks.
