Long Beach, at the southern edge of the Los Angeles metro area, has a Mediterranean climate with around 300 mm (about 12 inches) of rain a year, concentrated almost entirely in the winter months with a long, dry summer. As a major port city, sudden winter storms, particularly atmospheric river events that can bring intense rainfall in a short period, have real operational significance for shipping traffic in addition to the flash-flooding and mudslide risk they pose to the surrounding hillside communities. Because a typical summer week here involves no rain at all, radar is most useful during the concentrated winter storm season. NWS Doppler radar KVTX (Los Angeles/Oxnard) covers the region.
Learn more: How Does Rain Radar Work? · Open the full Rain Map
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it raining in Long Beach right now?
The live radar map above shows precipitation over Long Beach, California in real time. Blue shades indicate light rain, while yellow, orange, and red mark heavier downpours. If no colored echoes appear over Long Beach, no significant rain is currently being detected.
How often does the Long Beach rain radar update?
The radar refreshes continuously, typically every few minutes, so the map reflects current conditions rather than an hours-old forecast. Press play to animate the most recent frames.
Can I see if a storm is heading toward Long Beach?
Yes. Press play on the radar to animate the last few hours of rainfall and watch which way rain cells over California are moving – the clearest way to judge whether a shower will reach Long Beach or pass by.
Is this Long Beach rain radar free to use?
Yes, completely free – no account, app download, or sign-up required. It works in any browser on desktop and mobile.