Waterspout Threat Prompts Marine Warning Off Southern California Coast Near Long Beach and Newport Beach
LONG BEACH, CALIFORNIA — A Special Marine Warning was issued late Tuesday for portions of the Southern California coast, where forecasters warned of the potential for a waterspout to develop over nearshore waters between Point Mugu and San Mateo Point. The warning remains in effect until 10:15 PM PST.
The alert covers Santa Catalina Island, Anacapa Island, and the coastal waters near Long Beach, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, and Costa Mesa. Mariners were advised to seek safe harbor immediately as radar detected strong storm activity capable of producing brief tornado-like rotations over water.
Marine Areas Under Threat
According to the National Weather Service Los Angeles/Oxnard, radar imagery indicated isolated thunderstorms moving over the inner waters of Southern California with strong updrafts and rotational signatures — the key ingredients for waterspout formation.
“Waterspouts can form quickly and move onshore with little warning,” the NWS said. “They are capable of producing dangerous winds, rough seas, and lightning hazards.”
Conditions Behind the Warning
Meteorologists attribute the increased risk to a low-pressure system off the Pacific coast, which is generating unstable air and cold upper-level temperatures over warm surface waters. These conditions create a volatile environment for rotating storms to form just offshore.
The Los Angeles and Orange County coastlines have seen an uptick in marine thunderstorm activity through the evening, with lightning strikes reported near Newport Beach and Huntington Beach earlier tonight.
Safety Recommendations for Mariners and Beachgoers
Residents and mariners in the warning area are urged to:
- Move to safe harbor immediately.
- Avoid the water until conditions improve.
- Monitor marine radio and weather updates for additional warnings.
The National Weather Service advises that boaters and coastal residents remain alert overnight, as additional storm cells could develop along the coast.
Stay with NapervilleLocal.com for ongoing updates on developing marine weather across the Pacific Coast.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.