Long Beach Declares Local Emergency Amid El Niño and Hurricane Marie Damage

LONG BEACH — September 23, 2026

The city of Long Beach, California, has officially declared a local emergency as of September 23, 2026, in response to extensive damage inflicted by Hurricane Marie, which struck the region earlier this week. This declaration comes as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) warns of heightened hurricane activity due to the ongoing El Niño phenomenon.

The declaration was made by Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson during a press conference held on the morning of September 23. Mayor Richardson emphasized the urgent need for resources and support to address the aftermath of Hurricane Marie, which has left many residents without power and caused significant flooding in various neighborhoods.

Hurricane Marie made landfall on September 21, 2026, bringing with it heavy rainfall and strong winds that resulted in widespread damage across Long Beach and surrounding areas. Initial assessments indicate that the storm caused structural damage to homes and businesses, as well as disruptions to transportation and public services.

The local emergency declaration is a critical step in mobilizing state and federal resources to aid recovery efforts. It allows the city to access emergency funds and request assistance from the California Office of Emergency Services. The declaration also enables the city to expedite the procurement of necessary supplies and services to restore normalcy.

El Niño, characterized by warmer ocean temperatures in the Pacific, is known to influence weather patterns, often leading to increased storm activity. The current El Niño is expected to persist through the fall and winter months, raising concerns among meteorologists and local officials about the potential for more severe weather events in the coming weeks.

This situation is drawing significant attention not only due to the immediate impact on Long Beach but also because it highlights broader concerns about climate resilience and emergency preparedness in coastal cities. As communities grapple with the realities of climate change, the interplay between severe weather events and urban infrastructure becomes increasingly critical.

In the wake of this emergency declaration, residents are urged to stay informed through official channels and to prepare for potential further disruptions as the El Niño season progresses. Local officials are coordinating with emergency services to ensure that vulnerable populations receive the necessary support.

Looking ahead, the city plans to conduct further assessments of the damage caused by Hurricane Marie and will hold community meetings to discuss recovery efforts and future preparedness strategies. The Long Beach City Council is expected to convene in the coming days to discuss additional measures that may be necessary to address the ongoing challenges posed by the current weather conditions.

Source: ABC7 Los Angeles