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Could a hurricane send floods to SoCal for Labor Day weekend?
Los Angeles Times • • nation
Key Points:
- Tropical Storm Marie, developing in the eastern Pacific, may impact Southern California this Labor Day weekend, with potential risks of flooding and coastal erosion due to heavy rains and large waves, though its exact path remains uncertain.
- Experts predict Marie will likely weaken before reaching Southern California, possibly bringing heavy showers, thunderstorms, and dangerous surf rather than hurricane-strength winds.
- The region faces increased flood risks from decaying tropical storms, especially during high tides, with historical precedents like Hurricane Hilary in 2023 causing significant damage and fatalities.
- Southern California’s ocean temperatures are elevated due to a marine heat wave and an expected strong El Niño this winter, which could intensify storm activity and increase flooding threats.
- Climate scientists emphasize the need for greater awareness of tropical cyclone risks in Southern California, as climate change may increase the frequency and severity of such storms in the future.
