Long Beach officials ordered evacuations for approximately 20 homes along the Long Beach Peninsula on Monday evening as Tropical Storm Marie’s lingering effects continued to batter the coastline with high surf and elevated tides. The Long Beach Fire Department cited compromised seawall integrity and damage to the boardwalk as primary concerns, prompting door-to-door notifications between 63rd Place and 67th Place.
The evacuations follow days of coastal flooding and structural damage reported across the Alamitos Peninsula, where residents observed waves crashing over barriers and into neighborhoods. The Long Beach Building Department dispatched teams to assess the structural safety of homes in the evacuation zone, while city crews worked to evaluate the boardwalk’s condition. Eyewitness accounts described family members assisting loved ones in relocating, with water and sand left behind from recent high tides.
Extreme weather shifts ahead
Meteorologists warned that the region would face a sharp temperature increase starting Tuesday, with forecasts projecting highs of 96 to 98 degrees in Long Beach—10 to 20 degrees above normal. The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory for Wednesday and Thursday, citing the lingering moisture from Marie as a compounding factor that could heighten heat stress. Officials urged residents to stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned spaces, and check on vulnerable neighbors, noting that nighttime temperatures may remain in the mid-70s, offering little relief.
High surf and coastal flooding advisories remained in effect until 11 p.m. Tuesday, with weather officials cautioning that the combination of heat and residual moisture could exacerbate conditions. The boardwalk, a key recreational area, sustained visible damage, and city spokesperson David Gomberg emphasized the need for ongoing evaluations to prevent further risks.
Structural assessments and community response
The Long Beach Fire Department confirmed that the evacuations were precautionary, aimed at ensuring resident safety amid cracked concrete and compromised seawall sections. Firefighters and building inspectors coordinated efforts to identify at-risk properties, while neighbors assisted in evacuations. The boardwalk’s damage, including sections where waves breached barriers, drew attention from city officials and residents alike.
Community members described the scene as both challenging and unifying, with some noting the rapid response from emergency services. Others pointed to the long-term implications of repeated coastal flooding, questioning the durability of existing infrastructure. The city has not yet announced a timeline for repairs or reopening the boardwalk, pending further inspections.
Ongoing weather and safety measures
As Tropical Storm Marie’s remnants continue to influence regional weather, officials stressed the importance of preparedness. The heat advisory, initially set for midweek, may be extended if temperatures rise further. Residents in affected areas were advised to avoid the shoreline, monitor local alerts, and report any structural concerns to authorities. The city’s emergency management team reiterated that the evacuations were temporary and that updates would be provided as conditions evolved.