Full Breakdown
Remnants of Tropical Storm Marie Spark Extreme Heat, Flooding and Hazardous Surf in Southern California
9/9/2026, 1:43:37 AM
Remnants Trigger a Multi-Hazard Weather Event
Moisture from Tropical Storm Marie combined with an on-shore ridge of high pressure to produce extreme heat, high tides, heavy rain and powerful surf along the Los Angeles County coastline. Coastal flooding, sand-filled drains, power outages and dangerous rip currents were reported in Long Beach, Malibu and nearby communities over the weekend and into early week.
Background & Context
Scientists note a marine heat wave and a developing “super” El Niño are raising Pacific sea-surface temperatures, expanding water volume and lifting tide levels above the seasonal norm. Typical high tides range from 4 to 5 feet; this event pushed water to 6.7 feet with forecasts of 7 feet or more.
Data & Statistics
- Temperatures: Downtown Los Angeles and Long Beach expected to hit 96–98 °F; inland valleys may exceed 105 °F.
- Humidity: “Feels-like” values could approach 110 °F.
- Rainfall: Over 1.25 inches fell across Los Angeles County, contributing to runoff and bacterial contamination.
- Surf: Waves at Zuma Beach topped 12 feet; high-surf warnings remain in effect.
- Tides: Measured at 6.7 feet, with forecasts of 7 feet later in the week.
Official Statements & Responses
National Weather Service meteorologist David Gomberg warned that lingering tropical moisture combined with the heat will increase heat stress and that temperatures could “really jump up” if cloud cover fails to develop. He emphasized the danger of inexperienced swimmers, noting waves can shift from moderate to “really large, dangerous” without warning.
Los Angeles County public-health officials have advised residents to avoid ocean swimming through Wednesday because rain-driven runoff can introduce fecal bacteria. They also recommend staying hydrated, using air-conditioned spaces and seeking cooling centers for those without home cooling.
On-the-Ground Reports
Long Beach residents described flooded garages, power outages and sand-filled drainage systems. Sand berms built ahead of the storm were washed away, exposing the boardwalk to wave impact. Emergency responders dealt with beach closures and rescues as rip currents intensified.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The still-lingering moisture from Marie, combined with the heat, will add to the heat discomfort and create added heat stress,” — David Gomberg
- “If the clouds don’t materialize, then Wednesday could be a real problem, and temperatures could really jump up,” — David Gomberg
- “We don’t get a ton of rain during this month and it is on the later side for monsoonal moisture,” — Kristan Lund
What’s Next
Heat advisories remain in effect for Wednesday and Thursday, with the NWS ready to expand warnings if conditions worsen. Forecasts call for continued high humidity and “feels-like” temperatures near 110 °F through mid-week. Residents should monitor local alerts, limit outdoor activity during peak heat and avoid swimming until the beach-water advisory is lifted.
