Large waves flooded coastal communities from Newport Beach to Long Beach on Friday as Tropical Storm Rachel approached Southern California.

Rachel is expected to make landfall near the California-Mexico border early Sunday. The National Weather Service forecasts widespread rain and isolated coastal flooding in Orange and Los Angeles counties. San Diego County could see the strongest effects if the storm stays on its projected path.

Coastal flooding remains a concern through Tuesday, with conditions expected to peak Sunday as swells from the south and west combine, National Weather Service meteorologist Ariel Cohen said. The storm could also bring strong winds and further flooding.

The weather service issued a tropical storm watch Friday for much of San Diego County, meaning tropical storm-force winds are possible in the area within 48 hours. It warned that winds could damage lightweight structures and large tree branches, while driving could become hazardous on bridges and elevated roads.