California is facing widespread coastal damage after Tropical Storm Rachel brought powerful waves, coastal flooding and severe weather to parts of the US West Coast, prompting evacuations and emergency warnings.

The storm generated massive swells and unusually high tides that battered coastal communities, with some of the most significant damage reported in Long Beach, where sections of a historic coastal roadway were washed into the Pacific Ocean.

Authorities said towering waves struck homes along the shoreline, leading officials to declare eight houses unsafe for occupancy and issue "red-tag" notices. The affected properties were sealed off, while public access to the area was prohibited for safety reasons.

Emergency response intensified

Firefighters and emergency crews went door to door distributing more than 7,000 sandbags to residents in vulnerable neighbourhoods as authorities sought to reduce flood damage.

The US National Weather Service (NWS) raised coastal flood warnings to their highest level for parts of the Los Angeles coastline, warning that tides approaching 2.4 metres could inundate low-lying areas and cause additional erosion.

Officials also warned residents to stay away from beaches, piers and coastal roads because of dangerous surf and the risk of further flooding.

Heavy rain and flooding threats continue

Although Rachel has weakened after moving away from the coast, its remnants continue to bring heavy rainfall to parts of Southern California and the southwestern United States, increasing the risk of flash floods and mudslides, particularly in areas affected by recent wildfires.

Authorities said evacuation orders remain in effect in some coastal communities as engineers assess damage to roads and residential areas.

Emergency officials urged residents to monitor weather updates and follow evacuation and safety instructions as recovery efforts continue.(ILKHA)