The city of Long Beach is increasing preparations as large swells from Hurricane Polo are expected to arrive as early as Saturday. Flooding and high surf could impact the coast, just weeks after waves from Hurricane Marie caused damage in vulnerable areas. The National Weather Service is forecasting strong rip currents and coastal flooding from Tuesday through Wednesday along coastal areas of Orange and San Diego counties. Crews are building sand berms several feet high to help protect homes and businesses from being inundated by seawater. Earlier this week, Long Beach declared a local emergency as it prepares for more impacts from a strong El Niño season. Hurricane Polo is not expected to make landfall, but officials are preparing for potentially dangerous surf and flooding along the coastline. Residents in low-lying coastal areas are being urged to monitor weather conditions and follow any guidance from local officials as the storm approaches and conditions worsen.
