According to KABC Television, high surf breached sand berms in Seal Beach, California over the weekend, sending ocean water surging onto local boardwalks and leaving some residents knee-deep in water inside their garages. Cleanup crews and homeowners worked through Monday to clear debris and prepare for additional coastal flooding predicted during evening high tides.
Seal Beach Residents Prepare for Repeat Flooding
Seal Beach resident Jon Cockrill, who has lived behind the strand for 33 years, told KABC that he set up protective boards and sandbags around his garage to block incoming water. Seal Beach Public Works crews spent the night pumping out accumulated water, while additional cleanup teams cleared clogged storm drains and removed heavy trash washed ashore, according to local resident Allie Brooks.
Did you know? According to local reports, the extreme conditions drew visitors to the beach and pier despite warnings, with some children even kayaking and skimboarding down the flooded boardwalk. However, local parent Nick Krueger told KABC that he planned to keep his sons away from the dangerous waves moving forward due to the offshore tropical storm.
Surfers Brave Dangerous Conditions at The Wedge in Newport Beach
While Seal Beach residents battled property inundation, surfers and bodyboarders gathered at The Wedge in Newport Beach to take advantage of massive waves. According to the National Weather Service, forecasters predicted large breaking waves between four and seven feet tall, with sets reaching up to 10 feet. Lifeguards warned that the turbulent conditions were strictly for advanced swimmers.
Data from the Newport Fire Department indicates that lifeguards made over 185 ocean rescues over the weekend, alongside nearly 7,500 preventive actions, according to KABC. A Coastal Flood Advisory and a High Surf Advisory remain active in the region until 11 p.m. Tuesday.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the flooding in Seal Beach?
According to local reports, high surf breached sand berms over the weekend, pushing ocean water onto the boardwalk and into residential garages.
How long are the weather advisories in effect?
A Coastal Flood Advisory and a High Surf Advisory remain in place until 11 p.m.
How many rescues did lifeguards perform over the weekend?
According to a Newport Fire Department official cited by KABC, lifeguards executed over 185 ocean rescues and took nearly 7,500 preventive actions.
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