California Governor Gavin Newsom has implemented an emergency plan to protect coastal homes and infrastructure from severe El Niño weather by constructing barriers made of rocks, seawalls, and concrete along the shoreline. However, coastal experts have strongly criticised this approach, warning that whilst these measures offer short-term protection, they risk causing substantial long-term damage to California's beaches by trapping sand between the rising ocean and the artificial structures.

The US Geological Survey warns that California could lose up to two-thirds of its beaches by the end of the century if sea levels rise between three and six feet as projected. Environmental organisations like the Surfrider Foundation argue this represents a false choice between protecting private property and public beaches, and propose alternative solutions such as importing sand to naturally strengthen eroding coastlines, albeit at considerable expense. The tension between immediate coastal defence and long-term environmental harm reflects a broader challenge facing California's coastal communities.