Orange County residents are facing changing weather conditions this week as powerful ocean waves, coastal flooding and rain affect local beach communities, while warmer temperatures and strong winds could increase wildfire risks elsewhere in California.<\/p>\n
The remnants of Tropical Storm Rachel have brought elevated surf and flooding to Orange County’s coastline.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Orange Coast College environmental science major Emily Carter felt the weather changes to be alarming.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s concerning how quickly the weather can change from flooding along the coast to wildfire risks inland,\u201d Carter said. \u201cI think it shows why it\u2019s important for people to pay attention to local weather alerts, even when conditions seem normal where they live.\u201d<\/p>\n
In Newport Beach, ocean water inundated streets along the Balboa Peninsula, prompting city officials to declare a local emergency and temporarily close piers and popular surfing areas.\u00a0<\/p>\n
According to\u00a0ABC7 Los Angeles<\/a>, officials warned that high surf and elevated tides could cause additional flooding.<\/p>\n Other areas, including Laguna Beach and Crystal Cove State Park, have experienced coastal erosion and damage to beach infrastructure. A\u00a0state parks announcement<\/a> said some Crystal Cove cottages were evacuated as crews assessed the damage.<\/p>\n California State Parks temporarily closed portions of Crystal Cove and San Onofre State Beach because of damage caused by strong tides and large waves.\u00a0<\/p>\n A coastal flood advisory for Orange County beaches remains in effect through Tuesday afternoon, Oct. 13, according to the\u00a0National Weather Service<\/a>. Residents should be cautious around low-lying roads, beach parking lots and walking paths, especially during morning high tides.<\/p>\n While coastal communities deal with flooding, other parts of California are preparing for warmer, drier conditions.<\/p>\n OCC environmental science professor Kelli Elliott believes that it\u2019s important to be prepared when dealing with the unpredictable changes.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n \u201cEnvironmental risks can change quickly across Southern California, making it important for residents to stay informed about local weather alerts,\u201d Elliott said.\u00a0<\/p>\n Santa Ana winds are expected to return to Southern California later in the week, potentially increasing wildfire danger as gusts combine with dry vegetation. Strong winds can also bring down trees, damage property and make firefighting more difficult.<\/p>\n