Climate & Weather
How Elevation Affects Weather: A Complete Guide
Discover the fascinating relationship between elevation and weather patterns.
Elevation of Long Beach, California
9 meters elevation
Sea Level (0m)Mount Everest (8,848m)
-0.1°C
Temperature Drop
101.2kPa
Air Pressure
99.9%
Oxygen Level
Quick Facts
Elevation9 meters
Everest Comparison0.1% of Everest
Altitude Risk✅ Low RiskBelow altitude sickness threshold
RegionCalifornia
Highest PointSignal Hill (110 meters)
Notable Landmarks
Signal Hill Summit
110 meterselevation
Reservoir Hill
49 meterselevation
Bixby Knolls
15 meterselevation
Bluff Park
21 meterselevation
Los Cerritos
12 meterselevation
Geographic Features
Long Beach occupies a coastal plain at sea level, rising to modest heights at Signal Hill and the Los Coyotes Diagonal. The geology features ancient marine terraces and oil-bearing formations, while the surface shows extensive modification from both natural processes and urban development. The Los Angeles River enters the Pacific here through a highly engineered channel, while the harbor complex includes both natural features and massive human modifications. Signal Hill represents an isolated uplift related to the Newport-Inglewood fault system.
Climate Impact
At elevations from sea level to 110 meters, Long Beach experiences a Mediterranean climate moderated by the Pacific Ocean. The modest elevation variations create subtle temperature patterns, with summer highs reaching 29°C and winter lows rarely dropping below 7°C. Annual rainfall averages 31cm, concentrated in winter months. The coastal position influences local weather patterns, particularly the sea breeze cycle and morning marine layer. The atmospheric pressure remains close to sea level across most of the city. The growing season extends year-round, with coastal influences moderating temperature extremes.
Historical Context
Long Beach's relationship with elevation shaped its development from coastal marshland into a major port city. The discovery of oil on Signal Hill in 1921 highlighted the importance of even modest elevation changes, while the development of the port required extensive modification of natural elevations. The 1933 earthquake led to significant changes in building practices, particularly on varied soil conditions at different elevations. Modern Long Beach continues to address elevation-related challenges through sophisticated flood control systems and seismic design requirements that consider both soil conditions and tsunami risks.
FAQs: Long Beach's Elevation
What is the elevation of Long Beach?
Long Beach has an elevation of 9 meters, which influences its climate and environment.
How does Long Beach's elevation affect its weather?
The elevation of Long Beach (9 meters) significantly impacts its local climate, affecting temperature ranges, precipitation patterns, and atmospheric pressure.
What are the highest points near Long Beach?
The highest point in Long Beach is Signal Hill (110 meters), providing unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
