Public Safety
Rare tropical-storm watch puts Southern California on alert
Tropical Storm Rachel’s northward turn prompted rare tropical-storm alerts, coastal flood warnings and preparations for widespread weekend rain.
California was placed under only its second tropical-storm watch on record Friday after Rachel shifted north, the San Francisco Chronicle reported. The storm was forecast to approach the California-Mexico border late Saturday or early Sunday, although forecasters emphasized that the track and rainfall details remained uncertain.
Timing: Rain chances increase Saturday night, with widespread rain expected Sunday
Highest concern: San Diego County, nearby mountains and deserts
Coastal hazard: Flood warnings and dangerous surf remain in effect along parts of the Southern California coast
Overnight forecast update
The National Weather Service office in San Diego said periods of moderate to locally heavy rain were expected Sunday, especially in San Diego County, the mountains and the deserts. Its early Saturday hazard map showed tropical-storm warning and watch areas together with coastal-flood warnings and advisories.
Los Angeles County’s most significant threat was expected along south-facing beaches, while San Diego County faced a broader combination of wind, rain, surf and flood risks. Forecasts may change as Rachel approaches, so residents should use official weather alerts for current instructions.
Original reporting: San Francisco Chronicle, October 9 →
Official forecast: National Weather Service San Diego →
Related local preparation: San Diego offers sandbags as rain and high tides approach →