Residents and city crews in Seal Beach spent Monday cleaning up flood damage and preparing for another round of possible coastal flooding after powerful waves pushed ocean water onto the boardwalk over the weekend.
High surf conditions caused water to breach sand berms along the shoreline, sending seawater into low-lying areas and leaving some residents dealing with flooding near their homes. Cleanup efforts continued throughout the day as officials monitored forecasts calling for more large waves and higher tides.
Many residents took precautions to protect their property. Sandbags, wooden barriers, and other flood defenses were placed around homes and garages as people prepared for the possibility of another surge of water.
Longtime resident Jon Cockrill said he expected flooding could return if wave heights remained strong and tides rose as predicted. Having lived near the shoreline for more than three decades, he has become familiar with the challenges that come with coastal living.
To reduce the risk of damage, Cockrill installed boards in front of his garage and reinforced them with sandbags. Like many neighbors, he spent the day checking protective measures and preparing for changing conditions.
Despite warnings from officials, the beach and nearby pier continued to attract visitors eager to see the powerful surf. Large waves drew crowds to the coastline throughout the weekend and into Monday.
The flooding also created an unusual scene along the boardwalk. Water levels became high enough for some local children to use kayaks and skimboards in areas normally used by pedestrians. Families gathered to watch the rare event while remaining aware of the dangers posed by rough ocean conditions.
City workers remained busy throughout the cleanup effort. Public works crews operated pumps through the night to remove standing water and reduce the impact of flooding. Additional teams worked during the day to clear storm drains and remove debris carried in by the ocean.
Residents said one of the biggest problems after the flooding was the amount of trash left behind. Debris washed ashore by waves and runoff collected along streets, walkways, and drainage systems, requiring extensive cleanup work.
While some families enjoyed watching the unusual conditions, many remained cautious. Parents kept children away from the ocean because of concerns about strong currents and large waves linked to a tropical weather system offshore.
Officials repeatedly warned that the surf remained dangerous even after rainfall moved out of the area. Powerful waves, fast-moving currents, and changing water conditions created risks for anyone entering the ocean.
Even with the flooding concerns, many residents said living near the beach remains worthwhile. Coastal homeowners acknowledged that occasional flooding is one of the realities of life near the ocean, though some admitted their views might change if conditions worsen.
Elsewhere along the Southern California coast, surfers and bodyboarders gathered at The Wedge in Newport Beach to take advantage of the unusually large waves. The famous surf spot attracted experienced water sports enthusiasts hoping to ride the powerful swells.
Weather forecasters predicted breaking waves ranging from four to seven feet, with some wave sets reaching heights of up to ten feet. Such conditions created both excitement for skilled surfers and concern for public safety officials.
Lifeguards urged beach visitors to use caution and stressed that the surf conditions were suitable only for highly experienced swimmers and surfers. Authorities warned that even strong swimmers could struggle in the rough water.
Emergency personnel reported a busy weekend along the coast. Lifeguards carried out more than 185 ocean rescues and performed thousands of preventive actions aimed at keeping beachgoers safe. Those efforts included warning people about dangerous conditions and directing visitors away from hazardous areas.
Weather officials continue to monitor coastal conditions closely. A Coastal Flood Advisory and a High Surf Advisory remain in effect through Tuesday night as large waves continue to impact the shoreline.
For residents of Seal Beach, cleanup efforts are continuing while attention remains focused on the ocean. With more high surf expected, communities along the coast are staying alert and preparing for the possibility of additional flooding in the days ahead.
