Storm creates huge waves and dangerous currents at southern California beaches

Over Labor Day weekend, Hurricane Marie, located well out in the Pacific, generated flooding and treacherous conditions at several southern California beaches. National Weather Service meteorologist Rose Schoenfeld reported that the storm stirred up "life-threatening" conditions as it roared hundreds of miles off California’s Pacific coast.

Some south-facing beaches experienced surf heights up to 10 feet (3 meters) high. Lifeguards reported dangerous surf conditions, particularly concerning rip currents. Although Hurricane Marie is not expected to make landfall, it will still bring rainfall to parts of Los Angeles County before dissipating.

By Sunday, some areas had already received up to a quarter inch of rain, according to Schoenfeld. The National Weather Service cautioned swimmers to only use designated areas near lifeguards and to avoid rock jetties.

In response to the hazardous conditions, Long Beach's city health officer advised residents to refrain from swimming at any city beaches or bays for at least three days. The advisory highlighted that substantial rainfall since Saturday would generate runoff from storm drains and rivers, creating unsafe swimming conditions.

Seal Beach, a coastal city in Orange County, announced it would close two beachfront parking lots until Wednesday morning to safeguard life and property during the expected heightened surf and coastal flooding. The Seal Beach Municipal Pier remained operational.

Newport Beach lifeguard battalion chief Adam Yacenda stated that lifeguards conducted 177 rescues on Saturday.