Hurricane Marie, while maintaining distance from the California coast, is projected to generate significant hazards including dangerous ocean conditions and intermittent rainfall across Southern California over the Labor Day weekend.
Forecasters anticipate rainfall beginning Saturday night, with Sunday expected to be the wettest day, bringing light, widespread showers generally measuring less than a quarter inch. Higher elevations, such as the San Gabriel Mountains, could experience up to three-quarters of an inch of rain. The National Weather Service has also indicated a 5% to 15% probability of thunderstorms on Sunday. Motorists are advised to exercise caution as roads may become slick due to accumulated oils.
The most pronounced impacts are expected along the coastline. Hurricane Marie, currently a Category 2 storm with sustained winds of 100 mph, is forecast to produce a 6- to 8-foot south swell. This will result in strong surf and hazardous rip currents at local beaches. Coastal flood and high surf advisories have been issued for areas including Santa Catalina and Santa Barbara islands, Malibu, and Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, effective from Saturday morning through Tuesday night.
Meteorologists strongly advise against entering the water. Large breaking waves and rip currents, described as "dangerous and potentially life-threatening," are anticipated along the Los Angeles and Ventura County coasts. Wave heights are expected to reach 5 to 8 feet on Sunday and Monday, with Zuma Beach potentially experiencing waves of 8 to 10 feet.
The confluence of high evening tides and the southerly swell is contributing to coastal dangers. Low-lying and south-facing beaches in locations such as Avalon, Long Beach, Point Mugu, and Malibu could be susceptible to coastal flooding. For those determined to enter the water, the weather service recommends swimming near lifeguards, avoiding rocks and jetties, and adhering to local officials' guidance.
Climate scientists suggest that Hurricane Marie may not be the last tropical system to affect California in the near future. The prevailing El Niño conditions are associated with warmer ocean temperatures in the eastern and central Pacific, potentially increasing hurricane activity. It is plausible that one or two more tropical systems could influence the region in September or October.
