Long Beach Opened Sandbag Sites for Coastal Flooding
The city has launched four new distribution locations to help residents prepare for heavy surf and rising tides.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Forecasts
Live Poll
Should city governments be responsible for providing sandbags to residents in flood-prone neighborhoods?
Long Beach officials have opened four additional sandbag distribution sites as a coastal flood advisory remains in effect for the region. Residents are encouraged to prepare for potential flooding, high surf, and incoming rain linked to Hurricane Rachel.
Why it matters
The measures come as the National Weather Service warns of dangerous swells and exceptionally high tides that threaten low-lying areas. City leaders are urging residents to take proactive steps to protect property against anticipated coastal flooding.
New distribution sites opened at 10 a.m. Thursday, providing materials for residents until the flood advisory expires at 2 p.m. Tuesday. Surf heights are projected to reach 3 to 6 feet, with tides potentially hitting 7.5 feet on Sunday.
The players
National Weather Service
This federal agency provides weather forecasts and hazard warnings to protect life and property across the United States.
Hurricane Rachel
This storm system is actively generating southerly swells that are impacting coastal conditions.
The details
Residents must present identification to claim their 10-bag limit and are required to bring their own shovels to fill the bags. While the four new locations supplement the Claremont Beach Parking Lot site, empty bags also remain available at local fire stations.
Timeline
The Claremont Beach Parking Lot sandbag site opened on Sunday (Oct 4).
Four new sandbag distribution sites opened Thursday (Oct 8) at 10 a.m.
Surf height is expected to reach 3 to 6 feet on Thursday and Friday (Oct 9).
Greatest coastal flooding concerns are anticipated for Sunday (Oct 11).
The coastal flood advisory expires Tuesday (Oct 13) at 2 p.m.
Seasonal Patterns
The city's response follows the National Weather Service's coastal flood advisory protocols for managing heightened flood risks. These actions align with historical data regarding high-tide surges and tropical storm activity in Southern California.
Residents should visit a distribution site with identification and a shovel to secure materials before anticipated flooding peaks on Sunday. Keep clear of the shoreline and monitor local tide levels as surf conditions remain hazardous through Tuesday.
The takeaway
Proactive sandbagging is the most effective way for residents to mitigate property damage during high-tide events. Preparing early ensures that supplies remain available before localized demand surges during the peak of the flood advisory.
Further reading
Find additional weather updates in the Long Beach Forecasts section.
Live Poll
Should city governments be responsible for providing sandbags to residents in flood-prone neighborhoods?
