Coastal and inland areas of the US Southwest were struck by severe weather as post-tropical cyclone Rachel moved through the region, producing large surf along the Southern California coast and flood conditions inland.
Coastal impact
In Long Beach, towering waves driven by the storm repeatedly crashed into shoreline neighborhoods, battering homes and waterfront structures. The combination of high seas and strong currents pushed water onto coastal streets and properties, leaving visible damage along parts of the shoreline.
Flooding near the Las Vegas Strip
Farther inland, the storm’s effects extended into Nevada. Sections of Las Vegas near the famous Strip experienced flooding as water accumulated in low-lying areas, inundating roadways and properties close to the resort corridor.
Wider context and classification
Authorities described the system as a post-tropical cyclone, underscoring that it had lost some tropical characteristics while still packing strong winds and heavy seas capable of producing coastal and urban flooding. The storm’s reach from the Pacific coast into interior desert valleys highlighted the range of hazards such systems can pose.