Los Angeles County beaches and Marina del Rey are under a tsunami advisory, prompting widespread closures and advisories for residents and visitors to stay away from coastal areas until at least noon on Wednesday, July 30, 2025. The U.S. Tsunami Warning Center anticipates the first waves to arrive around 1 a.m., with conditions expected to include waves of 1 foot or less that could persist for at least nine hours.
Coastal Hazards and Advisories
The advisory, which is the middle tier in the U.S. Tsunami Warning Center’s alert system, signals a potential for dangerous ocean conditions. Residents are strongly urged to avoid beaches, harbors, marinas, and waterways due to the threat of strong waves and unpredictable currents. Specific areas of concern include jetties, piers, boat docks, and waterfront walkways, which are considered particularly hazardous during such events.
L.A. County Beaches and Harbors Response
The L.A. County Department of Beaches and Harbors (DBH) has taken significant precautionary measures. All county-managed beaches, along with beach restrooms, accessways, and parking lots, have been officially closed until at least noon on Wednesday. The department has also proactively moved heavy equipment to higher ground and is working to pull DBH-owned vessels out of the water where feasible to mitigate potential damage.
Marina del Rey lessees and the Marina del Rey Harbor Patrol have been alerted to the situation. In response to the advisory, all DBH-managed events and activities scheduled for Wednesday morning have been canceled. This includes a range of recreational and community gatherings that were planned for the early hours of the day.
Guest Safety and Support
For those staying at the Dockweiler RV Park, guests have been advised to relocate to higher ground. The DBH is actively arranging alternate parking solutions for affected individuals. The department is also coordinating its efforts with other key agencies to ensure a comprehensive response. This includes providing support for preparation and safety measures being undertaken by the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department and its Harbor Patrol, the L.A. County Fire Department and its lifeguards, and the L.A. County Office of Emergency Management.
Understanding Tsunami Advisories
A tsunami advisory indicates conditions that could pose a threat to life and property. Unlike a Tsunami Watch or Tsunami Warning, an advisory signifies that residents should stay away from beaches and coastal areas. The primary concerns are the potential for localized flooding in low-lying areas and dangerous, strong currents in the water. These conditions can develop rapidly and pose a significant risk to anyone venturing into or near the ocean.
Residents seeking real-time updates and official notifications are encouraged to sign up for alerts by visiting Alert.LACounty.gov. This platform provides crucial information directly from county emergency management officials to help individuals stay informed and safe during coastal events.