SoCal coast flooded as Tropical Storm Rachel makes its approach

Key Points:

• Coastal communities from Newport Beach to Long Beach experienced significant flooding from large waves on Friday as Southern California prepares for Tropical Storm Rachel, expected to make landfall near the California-Mexico border early Sunday.
• The National Weather Service issued a rare tropical storm watch for most of San Diego County, warning of possible tropical storm-force winds, hazardous seas, and coastal flooding through Tuesday, with the greatest impact expected Sunday.
• Unusually warm ocean temperatures due to a marine heat wave and El Niño conditions are allowing Rachel to strengthen as it approaches the West Coast, contributing to higher tides, large swells, and increased flooding risk.
• Southern California is forecast to receive light to moderate rain between Sunday and Monday, with the highest flood risk in San Diego and parts of the Inland Empire; coastal flooding and dangerous surf remain the primary concerns.
• Officials in affected cities like Newport Beach and Long Beach have declared emergencies, issued sandbags, and are preparing for continued damage, as this El Niño event is predicted to be one of the strongest on record, increasing the potential for severe winter storms.