FLOSSI AND CALIFORNIA STORMS

The 1997–1998 El Niño produced relentless winter storms.

Coastal erosion affected more than 30% of California’s beaches.

High waves partially destroyed the Capitola Wharf.

The Seal Beach Pier sustained heavy damage, necessitating repairs. 

Torrential rains flooded low-lying areas and coastal towns, causing massive mudslides along cliffs.

Total damage was estimated at over $500 million.

A 1983 surge and intense storm during the spring of 1983 destroyed entire sections of the

Huntington Beach Pier. Waves exceeded 25 feet in height.

Redondo Beach Pier: Significant structural damage occurred, leading to reconstruction.

Santa Monica Pier: The pier faced extensive damage, requiring significant repairs.

A series of atmospheric river events in the winter of 2017 hit coastal areas with powerful waves and extensive flooding, especially in Santa Cruz County.

Severe cliff collapses occurred along the Big Sur coastline, leading to the closure of Highway 1 for months.

Storms caused over $1.5 billion in damages across the state, with coastal areas among the hardest hit.

2023 Winter Storms

A record-setting series of atmospheric river events and powerful storms in early 2023 caused significant erosion of Monterey Bay, damaging piers, roads, and homes along the bay.

Capitola and Santa Cruz:

The historic Capitola Wharf suffered a partial collapse, and waves flooded the adjacent village.

Large sections of the Santa Cruz coastline eroded dramatically.

California loses 0.2–0.4 meters (0.6–1.3 feet) of coastline annually, and severe storms accelerate this process.