The heavy rainfall from Tropical Storm Rachel caused significant flash flooding in urban areas, overwhelming drainage systems and waterways. Coastal areas near San Diego reported rainfall totals ranging from 0.48 to 0.95 inches, while valleys and mountains saw up to 2.37 inches. The flooding posed risks to infrastructure, transportation, and public safety. However, the storm's impact on Lake Mead's water levels was negligible, underscoring the scale of the long-term water deficit in the Colorado River Basin. The drought continues to threaten water supplies for millions of residents and agricultural operations in the region.