The remnants of Post-Tropical Cyclone Rachel brought heavy rainfall, strong winds, and coastal flooding to portions of Southern California on Sunday. The system made landfall in northern Baja California on Saturday night before weakening and moving inland.

National Weather Service reports indicated that Rachel, which had maximum sustained winds near 60 mph at landfall, lost its tropical characteristics but continued to generate moisture that fueled flash flood threats. Rainfall totals reached 1 to 3 inches across much of the region, with locally higher amounts up to 5 inches possible in higher terrain. Intense rain bands affected areas including the Coachella Valley, where rates hit three-quarters to one inch per hour overnight.

Coastal impacts included major flooding and erosion along beaches from Malibu to San Diego. Waves combined with a long-period southerly swell produced life-threatening surf and rip currents. Water levels ran as much as 1.5 feet above predictions in some spots, damaging roads and structures. Evacuation orders remained in place for some oceanfront areas in Long Beach, while piers closed in Newport Beach.

Gusty winds exceeding 40 mph affected Southern California mountains and spread into higher elevations of the Desert Southwest. Flash flood warnings covered parts of San Diego, Riverside, and Imperial counties, including El Cajon, Santee, and Blythe. The National Hurricane Center issued its final advisory on the system Sunday morning after it dissipated over the southwestern United States.

This marks the second tropical storm watch for San Diego County in recent years, following the remnant effects of Hurricane Hilary in 2023. Forecasters noted the unusual combination of factors contributing to the event, including elevated water levels ahead of the storm's arrival. Hazardous coastal conditions are expected to persist into early next week.

Local officials urged residents to avoid flooded roadways and monitor updates from the National Weather Service. No fatalities have been reported as of midday Sunday.