Hurricane Marie Spares California but Sends Rain to Arizona
Hurricane Marie, which formed in the eastern Pacific on September 1, is not expected to make landfall in California. Instead, the storm will curve northwest, bringing tropical moisture to the U.S. Southwest. Arizona faces a 20-30% chance of storms from September 3 to 5, with potential flash flooding in southeast regions. California may see minor coastal impacts, but no direct hurricane strike is anticipated.
Key points
- Hurricane Marie formed on September 1 and is forecast to peak at Category 2 strength with winds of 105 mph on September 4.
- The storm will not approach the U.S.-Mexico border, ruling out a direct hit to California.
- Arizona expects scattered storms and flash flooding risks from September 3 to 5, particularly in southeast areas.
- Social media initially spread false rumors of a California landfall, which were later corrected by forecasters.
- El Nino conditions have contributed to a record 15 named storms in the Pacific this year.
Background
Earlier reports from September 2 and 3 confirmed that Marie would not strike California, with only rough seas and minor rainfall expected. The current update clarifies that while California remains safe from direct impact, the storm's moisture is now directed toward Arizona, where it may cause localized flooding.
How outlets are covering it
The Weather Channel and azcentral.com agree that Hurricane Marie will not hit California. However, they differ in emphasis: The Weather Channel focuses on the lack of direct impact, while azcentral.com highlights the significant rainfall and flash flooding risks for Arizona due to tropical moisture. Both outlets note that early social media rumors of a California landfall were unfounded.
Why it matters
The event underscores the importance of relying on official forecasts over social media rumors, which can spread misinformation about severe weather. It also highlights how El Nino conditions can increase the frequency of Pacific storms, affecting regions far from the storm's path.
What to watch
Forecasters expect Marie to continue strengthening until September 4, after which it may weaken. Arizona may see continued storm risks through September 5, while California could experience minor coastal impacts. Updates will be provided as the storm's path evolves.
- Marie won't hit California, but some impacts are possible The Weather Channel
- A Hurricane Will Not Hit California. Here’s What to Expect Instead. The New York Times
- Will Hurricane Marie bring rain to Southern California this weekend? KTLA
- Tropical Storm Marie upgraded to hurricane, could bring rain, high surf to Southern California for Labor Day ABC7 Los Angeles
- Here's how much rain Arizona could see from Tropical Storm Marie azcentral.com and The Arizona Republic
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