Storm destroys walkway, trees at Dana Point beach

 A rainstorm has wreaked havoc on a scenic strip of Southern Orange County beach, destroying a wooden walkway and uprooting palm trees.

The Orange County Register reports heavy rain, big waves and high tides Friday had caused the damage to Capistrano Beach in Dana Point.

The beach had already been hard hit in recent years by storm surges in what environmentalists have said is an example of rising sea levels.

Surfrider Foundation South County Chapter Chairman Rick Erkeneff has said the city of Dana Point is looking at which areas could face problems from sea level rise.

The damage caused the closure of a popular basketball court and the loss of about 20 trees.