Scorching temperatures and high humidity are expected to hit Southern California after a weekend of coastal flooding, heavy rain, and dangerous surf due to remnants of Tropical Storm Marie. Forecasts predict a sharp increase in temperatures by Tuesday, with heat rising 10 to 20 degrees above normal, even affecting coastal regions.
In downtown Los Angeles and Long Beach, temperatures might reach 96 to 98 degrees, while inland communities and valleys could face temperatures above 105 degrees. Night temperatures will not bring much relief, likely remaining in the mid-70s across the Los Angeles Basin. Meteorologists warn that Wednesday might be even hotter.
The lingering humidity from Marie adds to discomfort and increases heat stress, prompting the National Weather Service in Los Angeles-Oxnard to issue a heat advisory for Wednesday and Thursday. Alert levels may rise if conditions worsen. David Gomberg, lead meteorologist, highlights the importance of staying hydrated, remaining in air-conditioned spaces, and checking on vulnerable individuals.
“If the clouds don’t materialize, Wednesday could be problematic, and temperatures might spike considerably,”said Gomberg.
High surf and flooding advisories remain effective until 11 p.m. Tuesday. Weather officials advise extreme caution as the ocean continues to churn. Dangerous rip currents and massive waves pose risks, capable of capsizing small boats and pulling swimmers into the sea.
“Inexperienced individuals should avoid the surf zone currently,” warned Gomberg. Waves may appear moderate before increasing dramatically, leading to potentially life-threatening rip currents.
Over the weekend, Malibu’s Zuma Beach experienced waves up to 12 feet. Beach closures and significant flooding impacted emergency response efforts. South-facing beaches in Long Beach and Malibu suffered particularly from high swells and storm-charged waves.
Video footage shows powerful waves in Long Beach, damaging the boardwalk and washing away sand berms. Residents reported power outages, flooded garages, and clogged drains.
“There’s power shortages causing shocks, tiles being ripped off floors, and furniture displaced,”Cole Hill, a Long Beach resident, shared with ABC-7 news.
Tropical storms during this time are usual for Southern California. What’s notable is the conjunction of powerful waves and unusually high tides. The record-breaking ocean heat off California and the developing El Niño contribute to higher-than-normal tides.
Normally, high tide levels vary between 4 and 5 feet, with occasional peaks up to 6.5 feet. However, Sunday’s high tide reached 6.7 feet with forecasts predicting increases to 7.2 feet by Tuesday.
“Predicted tides now run slightly higher — 6.5 to 7 feet — affecting how far inland water pushes,” added Gomberg.
Unseasonal rainfall exacerbated drainage issues, with over 1.25 inches recorded in Los Angeles County. Authorities are advising against ocean swimming due to potential bacterial contamination from rain runoff.
Los Angeles County’s geography directs rainwater toward the sea, carrying debris and pollutants. Unlike treated sewage, rainwater mixes directly with ocean water via storm drains. Experts recommend avoiding ocean swimming for 72 hours post-rain, or five days near river outfalls.