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Long Beach is facing dangerous beach conditions this Labor Day as strong surf, powerful rip currents and the possibility of coastal flooding continue along Southern California’s coast. Scattered showers may also affect holiday plans across Los Angeles and Ventura counties on Monday, September 7, 2026.
The National Weather Service said showers would remain scattered and isolated across the region. Much of Los Angeles County has a 5% to 15% chance of thunderstorms, creating a wet and unsettled holiday for some communities.
Critical Long Beach Coastal Flooding Alert Remains in Effect
The most serious concern for Long Beach residents and beachgoers is not the rain but the condition of the ocean. A Coastal Flood Advisory remains in effect through Tuesday at 11 p.m., according to the National Weather Service.
Forecasters warned that high tides, large breaking waves and strong rip currents could create dangerous conditions along the shoreline. The advisory said the risk of ocean drowning is elevated, with currents potentially pulling swimmers and surfers away from the beach.
Large waves may also injure people standing near the water, wash visitors from beaches and rocks, or capsize small boats operating close to shore. Officials are urging the public to use extreme caution and avoid entering the ocean while conditions remain hazardous.
Alamitos Peninsula Faces Surprising High-Tide Threat
The National Weather Service highlighted the Alamitos Peninsula area in Long Beach as a particular concern. Structures in the area have previously been damaged during high tide, and additional seawater flooding is possible in vulnerable locations.
Potentially affected areas include:
- Low-lying coastal roads
- Beach parking lots
- Walkways near the shoreline
- Beaches and other exposed public areas
- Structures near the Alamitos Peninsula
Significant beach erosion is also expected. People visiting the coast should stay away from damaged areas, observe posted warnings and avoid standing near large waves or unstable edges.
Lingering Showers Could Disrupt Labor Day Plans
Rain that moved into the region from the southwest early Monday was expected to continue at times through at least the afternoon, the National Weather Service said. The showers may be brief in some areas but could arrive suddenly, especially across Los Angeles and Ventura counties.
The unsettled weather could affect outdoor gatherings, holiday barbecues, travel and recreational activities. Residents planning to spend the day outside should monitor changing conditions and prepare for wet weather, even if skies briefly appear to clear.
Orange County and the Inland Empire were expected to dry out by the afternoon after a few lingering morning showers. However, conditions along the coast remain more concerning because the ocean hazards are expected to continue beyond the end of the rain.
Tropical Storm Marie Weakens but Coastal Hazards Continue
Tropical Storm Marie, downgraded from a hurricane on Sunday, continues moving northwest and is becoming less influential on Southern California’s weather. Even as the storm weakens and moves farther away, its effects are still contributing to dangerous surf and coastal concerns.
The storm’s weakening does not mean beach conditions are immediately safe. High surf, strong currents and coastal flooding can remain dangerous after a tropical system loses strength, particularly during high tide.
For people in Long Beach, the biggest risk is expected near the shoreline rather than farther inland. Beach visitors should consider postponing ocean activities and choose safer indoor or elevated locations for Labor Day celebrations.
How to Stay Safe Near Long Beach Beaches
Residents and visitors can reduce their risk by following local warnings and staying away from the water when surf conditions are dangerous. Even experienced swimmers and surfers can be caught off guard by rapidly changing currents and unusually large waves.
- Avoid swimming or surfing in areas with strong rip currents.
- Stay away from rocks, jetties and exposed shoreline structures.
- Do not stand near the edge of the water to photograph large waves.
- Move away from low-lying coastal areas during high tide.
- Keep small boats out of hazardous nearshore waters.
- Follow instructions from lifeguards and local authorities.
Anyone caught in a rip current should avoid fighting directly against it. Swimmers should remain calm, signal for help and move parallel to the shoreline when possible until they are clear of the current.
The National Weather Service continues to monitor the situation. While inland areas may dry out later Monday, coastal flooding, erosion and dangerous surf are expected to remain the primary concerns for Long Beach and nearby communities through Tuesday evening.
Frequently Asked Questions About Long Beach Weather
Is Long Beach under a coastal flood advisory?
Yes. A Coastal Flood Advisory remains in effect through Tuesday at 11 p.m., with flooding possible in vulnerable low-lying coastal areas during high tide.
Will it rain in Long Beach on Labor Day?
Scattered and isolated showers may continue at times Monday. Los Angeles County also has a 5% to 15% chance of thunderstorms.
Is it safe to swim at Long Beach beaches?
Conditions are considered dangerous because of strong rip currents and large breaking waves. Visitors should avoid entering the ocean and follow lifeguard and weather warnings.
Which Long Beach area faces particular concern?
The National Weather Service specifically identified the Alamitos Peninsula as an area of concern because high tides have previously damaged structures there.