Labor Day weekend brings rain and surf threats to Los Angeles, officials warn

Light rain, high surf and rip currents are forecast for Southern California over the holiday weekend as Hurricane Marie fuels moisture and swell offshore

The National Weather Service in Los Angeles predicts light rain on Sunday with less than half an inch expected across most of the city, while a southeast to south swell generated by Hurricane Marie will push wave heights to five to eight feet and occasional sets up to ten feet on south-facing beaches, according to a forecast discussion released on September 5.

Coastal flood and high-surf advisories are already in effect, and the National Hurricane Center warns that the same swell will create life-threatening rip currents along the shoreline. Beachgoers are urged to stay near lifeguards, avoid rocks and jetties, and keep an eye on local alerts throughout the long weekend.

The NWS beach hazards statement notes that large waves and strong rip currents are expected on south-facing beaches of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, with local sets reaching ten feet on Sunday and Monday. The statement advises swimmers to stay in lifeguarded areas and to avoid the water’s edge when conditions are hazardous.

A public advisory from the National Hurricane Center confirms that swells generated by Hurricane Marie will continue to affect the Southern California coast for several days, creating life-threatening surf and rip current conditions. The advisory also notes that no coastal watches or warnings are currently in effect, but local officials have issued high-surf and coastal-flood advisories that will remain through early next week.

Small craft advisory conditions are expected from Point Sal to San Nicolas Island through the weekend, and the western Santa Barbara Channel may see advisory-level winds each evening, according to the Marine Forecast in the NWS discussion. Residents near vulnerable harbors should monitor tide levels and be prepared for moderate coastal flooding on south-facing beaches.

Rainfall is forecast to be light, with the NWS discussion estimating a total of less than a quarter of an inch for most of Los Angeles County on Sunday, and a 5 percent chance of excessive rainfall that could produce brief heavier showers. The forecast also mentions a low chance of thunderstorms, which could bring brief gusty winds and localized downpours.

Temperatures will stay near seasonal normals, with daytime highs around 87 °F on Labor Day and overnight lows in the upper 60s. The added humidity from tropical moisture will make it feel warmer, especially along the coast where overnight lows may stay in the 70s. Current observations from the downtown weather station show a temperature of 63 °F and humidity at 89 percent on the morning of September 5.

Roads are expected to become slick as rain mixes with oil residue that has built up over the summer. Officials advise drivers to allow extra travel time, especially on coastal routes where runoff may be heavier. The National Weather Service also notes a moderate heat risk on Monday as temperatures rise again, so residents should stay hydrated and plan indoor activities if possible.

Los Angeles residents should treat the weekend as a hybrid of beach-day and rain-check. The surf will be spectacular for experienced surfers, but the same waves create dangerous rip currents that have claimed lives in recent years. Light rain may disrupt outdoor festivals and traffic, so having a backup indoor plan and checking real-time alerts can keep the holiday enjoyable without surprise hazards.