Full Breakdown
Long Beach Peninsula Evacuations Triggered by Tropical Storm Marie’s High Surf
9/8/2026, 10:24:53 PM
Storm-Driven Evacuations on the Peninsula
Around 20 homes along the Long Beach Boardwalk were ordered to evacuate Monday evening after the seawall and adjacent boardwalk were found compromised by powerful waves generated by Tropical Storm Marie. Firefighters went door-to-door between 63rd and 67th Place, warning residents of imminent flooding and structural damage. The city closed the peninsula to all vehicular traffic except for residents while crews inspected homes for cracked concrete, buckling slabs, and soil erosion.
Background: Tropical Storm Marie’s Coastal Impact
Marie, situated hundreds of miles offshore, produced a south-swelling that combined with unusually high evening tides to push waves 6-10 feet onto south-facing beaches. The resulting surf reached inland, washing away sand berms that normally protect the shoreline. Similar conditions later affected nearby Seal Beach and Zuma Beach, where parking lots flooded and water entered streets.
Damage Assessment and Data
- ? 20 residences evacuated; at least 12 garages reported damaged.
- Concrete between homes showed cracks extending up to or beneath walls, according to Long Beach Fire Department Capt. Jack Crabtree.
- Wave heights of 6-10 feet were forecast, with tides expected to exceed 7 feet through the early week.
- A coastal-flood advisory and high-surf advisory remained in effect through the night and into the following day.
- The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health issued an ocean-water-quality rain advisory, urging beach users to avoid water contact for 72 hours after rainfall.
Official Statements & Responses
Long Beach Fire Battalion Chief Jake Heflin said officials must determine the extent of waterfront infrastructure damage before deciding on further protective measures. Mayor Rex Richardson emphasized that the event illustrates a broader climate risk, noting the city’s need to prepare for repeat occurrences. The Building and Safety Bureau was dispatched to evaluate structural integrity, and the fire department posted updates on Instagram to keep the public informed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The climate emergency is real. This is one event, but we have to be honest, this will happen again,” — Rex Richardson, long beach mayor — Rex Richardson, Long Beach mayor.
