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King tides to wash across Southern California. Here’s when the highest tides could arrive
Southern California will experience exceptionally high tides over the next several days, bringing a chance of coastal flooding and beach erosion.
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Courtesy of the City of Huntington Beach
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Topline:
King Tides are back and washing across Southern California over the next several days, bringing a chance of coastal flooding to some areas. The highest tides are forecasted to occur Friday through Sunday.
What do we know: The National Weather Service said the highest tides of between 7 and 7.5 feet in some areas will arrive between 7 a.m. and 11 a.m. through Sunday.
Why now: It’s normal to have king tides a few times a year. They’re the highest high tide of the year and are predictable and natural. These tides typically happen when the moon is in its closest approach to earth, which can cause higher tides than usual, according to NASA. It just so happens that the first full moon of the year is Saturday.
What about flooding? The tides could combine with the wind and bring minor coastal flooding to low lying areas near beaches such as walkways and parking lots. Sunday is when our beaches will see the highest chance of shallow flooding and more significant beach erosion, according to the National Weather Service. The tides will taper off beginning early next week.
Any sandbags? Huntington Beach is offering free self-serve sandbag fill stations at the following locations:
- Edison Community Center at 21377 Magnolia St. Available 24/7
- Warner Fire Station at 3831 Warner Ave. Available 24/7
- Corporate Yard at 17371 Gothard St. Weekdays between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.
You’ll need to bring your own shovel and are encouraged to not overload your vehicle.
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Should you go in the water? Probably not. A beach advisory is in place through Sunday for all Southern California beaches. The NWS is urging swimmers to stay out of the water because of hazardous conditions or stay near occupied lifeguard towers. It’s also best to stay off the rocks as rock jellies can be deadly in these conditions.
How to check on the tides: Here’s where you can track the tides through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Go deeper… on why king tides are predictable and natural for California.
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