Updated

Updated · CBS New York · Sep 7

Southern California Extends Coastal Flood Advisory to Tuesday as Marie Leaves 5%-15% Storm Risk

Updated

Updated · CBS New York · Sep 7

Southern California Extends Coastal Flood Advisory to Tuesday as Marie Leaves 5%-15% Storm Risk

Q: As Tropical Storm Marie ruins Labor Day plans, what hidden dangers still lurk beneath the crashing waves for returning beachgoers?

The biggest hidden danger is not the rain but the ocean itself: strong rip currents and powerful, erratic surf remain even as Tropical Storm Marie weakens offshore. Forecasters and lifeguards warned that Marie’s swell was still driving 6- to 10-foot waves at some Southern California beaches, with “life-threatening” rip currents capable of pulling swimmers and surfers out to sea. Those currents can persist after skies clear, making the water look safer than it is. Officials also warned that large breaking waves can knock people off their feet, wash them off rocks or jetties, and capsize small boats near shore. Another less visible risk is contamination from runoff. In Long Beach, health officials advised against swimming for at least three days because rainwater flowing from storm drains and rivers can foul beach and bay water, creating unhealthy conditions for swimmers even after the surf eases. Beachgoers also face flooding and erosion hazards around high tide. Low-lying parking lots, walkways, roads and beaches can still flood, and Long Beach’s Alamitos Peninsula remains especially vulnerable because past high tides have already damaged structures there. The practical takeaway from weather officials is simple: stay out of the water unless conditions are clearly safe, swim only near staffed lifeguard towers, avoid rocks and jetties, and do not assume calmer weather means the danger has passed.

3 articles · Updated · CBS New York · Sep 7

Tuesday 11 p.m. is the new endpoint for a Coastal Flood Advisory in Southern California, where Tropical Storm Marie is still driving dangerous surf, strong rip currents and seawater flooding in low-lying coastal areas.
Los Angeles and Ventura counties face scattered showers through at least Monday afternoon, with much of LA County carrying a 5%-15% chance of thunderstorms, while Orange County and the Inland Empire should dry out by afternoon.
The National Weather Service warned of widespread, very strong rip currents, large breaking waves, beach erosion and possible capsizing of small boats near shore.
Long Beach's Alamitos Peninsula was flagged as a particular concern because high tides have already damaged structures, even as Marie weakens and moves northwest away from the region.