Long Beach Marathon Will Reroute Due to Storm
Organizers are adjusting the race path on October 12, 2026, to account for hazardous conditions caused by Tropical Storm Rachel.
Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Running
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The 2XU Long Beach Marathon will proceed on October 12, 2026, though organizers have adjusted the course to avoid coastal sections. The change comes as Tropical Storm Rachel impacts the region with elevated tides and dangerous oceanfront conditions.
Why it matters
The adjustment ensures runner safety in response to volatile weather that has already caused property damage in the area. Local officials are actively monitoring the storm's impact as it moves through the coast.
Officials have red-tagged eight homes in Long Beach due to surf damage, while the race course will feature a 1.5-mile reroute near mile 8. A National Weather Service Coastal Flood Warning remains active until 3 p.m. on race day.
The players
National Weather Service
The federal agency is responsible for providing weather forecasts and issuing emergency alerts such as the active Coastal Flood Warning.
The details
Race organizers are diverting the route away from the beachfront path near mile 8 to mitigate risks posed by high tides. The full marathon is set to begin at 5:30 a.m., followed by the half marathon at 6:30 a.m. on Sunday.
Timeline
October 11, 2026: Organizers announced the course adjustment.
October 12, 2026, 5:30 a.m.: The full marathon is scheduled to begin.
October 12, 2026, 6:30 a.m.: The half marathon is scheduled to begin.
October 12, 2026, before 3 p.m.: Coastal Flood Warning is in effect.
Season Trajectory
This mid-event course adjustment mirrors broader regional responses to emergency storm alerts that frequently interrupt coastal athletic programming. By prioritizing the safety of participants, the marathon maintains its schedule while navigating strict regulatory flood thresholds.
Participants must note that the race path now deviates by 1.5 miles at the mile 8 marker, potentially altering expected pacing or terrain challenges. All runners should prepare for the possibility of continued coastal flooding as the warning remains active through the afternoon.
The takeaway
Runners should monitor official race communications closely on Sunday morning for any further route adjustments. Ensuring you arrive early is essential given the potential for road closures and flooding throughout the coastal route.
Further reading
For updates on local athletic events and community races, visit the Running section.
Live Poll
Should your community hold large public events during active coastal flood warnings?
