# California Hit by Unusually Destructive 2026 Pacific Hurricane Season

> California faces coastal flooding and heavy rain from Tropical Storm Rachel as 2026 Pacific hurricane season intensifies.
- Title: California Hit by Unusually Destructive 2026 Pacific…
- Summary: California faces coastal flooding and heavy rain from Tropical Storm Rachel as 2026 Pacific hurricane season intensifies. California's coastal areas…
- Keywords: california, tropical storm, tropical storm rachel, 2026 hurricane season, coastal flooding, rainfall, southern california, el niño, hurricane hilary, hurricane marie, hurricane nora, science
- Source: The Conversation — https://theconversation.com/california-is-taking-a-beating-from-an-unusually-destructive-2026-hurricane-season-294207
- Author: Nicholas Grondin
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: california, tropical storm, tropical storm rachel, 2026 hurricane season, coastal flooding, rainfall, southern california, el niño, hurricane hilary, hurricane marie, hurricane nora, science
## California Faces Unusual Tropical Storm Threat
California is taking a beating from an unusually destructive 2026 Pacific hurricane season.
## Tropical Storm Rachel Brings Coastal Flooding
Tropical Storm Rachel generated high tides and coastal flooding in Southern California from Oct. 9-11, 2026.
## Historical Context of California Storms
Southern California has seen few direct hits from tropical storms since 1858, with the 1858 San Diego Hurricane causing significant damage.
## El Niño Increases Storm Risk
El Niño raises the probability of tropical storms approaching Southern California by warming eastern Pacific waters.
## Rachel's Impact on California
Rachel weakened to an extratropical cyclone before landfall but caused coastal flooding and heavy rain across Southern California.
## Recent Storm History in California
Hurricanes Marie in 2024, Narda in 2025, and another Marie in 2026 have caused coastal damage in Southern California.
## Rainfall Causes Flash Flooding
Rachel dumped over 6 inches of rain in parts of Southern California, including over 1 inch at San Diego International Airport.
## Key takeaway

California's coastal areas experienced flooding and heavy rain from Tropical Storm Rachel during the unusually active 2026 Pacific hurricane season.