Tropical Storm Rachel is producing coastal impacts in Southern California, with flooding reported in Newport Beach as high tides combine with storm-driven swells. The system, a downgraded hurricane, is tracking toward landfall along the Pacific near the US-Mexico border late Saturday, according to forecasters.
Two other storms are also forecast to affect North America this weekend. Hurricane Simon is intensifying off Mexico’s Pacific coast as a category one hurricane and is expected to rapidly strengthen to category four by Saturday.
It is projected to make landfall near Puerto Vallarta on Sunday, according to Reuters. Forecasts and advisories from the National Hurricane Center show the storm’s projected track and intensity changes.
Further north, Tropical Storm Rachel continues to move toward the coast, bringing hazardous surf and elevated water levels ahead of its expected landfall timeframe. The storm’s effects are already being felt in Southern California beaches and low-lying neighborhoods.
Tropical Storm Rachel impacts
High tides and persistent swells have pushed seawater into streets in Newport Beach. Video and photos shared from the area show several blocks inundated on the Balboa Peninsula.
The City of Newport Beach advised the public on X to avoid the Balboa Peninsula due to street flooding tied to recent storm conditions and elevated tides, and urged drivers not to attempt to pass through flooded roadways. Crews using bulldozers have been reinforcing beach berms to help limit additional flooding.
Residents along the Pacific coast of Mexico and the U.S. border region are urged to monitor official forecasts and local advisories as Hurricane Simon and Tropical Storm Rachel approach. Officials in coastal communities increasingly factor in how California clean car rules and broader climate policies intersect with long-term storm and flood risks.
Information based on reports from weather officials and Reuters. For additional regional advisories, visit the National Weather Service.
