King Tides Could Rise Even Higher Than October’s Record in Southern California

Officials in Newport Beach, California, are urging residents to begin preparations for another round of West Coast King Tides. Here is a closer look at when these tides are expected, as well as what you can do to protect your property if you know that you live in the line of fire.

Multiple King Tide Events in California Over the Next Several Weeks

Another round of potentially devastating King Tides is forecast to grip portions of the California coastline beginning the week of Thanksgiving, the week of Christmas, and the first part of 2027. The Newport Beach Police Department said that ocean levels are forecast to rise a foot or more above the levels that were seen in October.

The October King Tide event produced a record-breaking high tide of 8.4 feet. The King Tides are predicted to raise the threat of flooding across low-lying areas. Waterfront properties will be at an especially high risk during these time periods.

City crews are hard at work preparing the beach community's infrastructure for the upcoming King Tides. Workers are reinforcing the protective sand berms, inspecting the stormwater drainage systems and tide valves, and placing equipment in areas most likely to bear the brunt of the impacts.

What Residents Can Do to Protect Against Tidal Flooding

Although the city is being proactive about preparing for tidal flooding, officials are also urging residents to act to protect their property. Experts recommend that residents place sandbags or temporary flood barriers around areas where water could enter. This includes around doorways and garages.

This is also a good time to inspect seawalls for cracks, openings, and low sections. Any type of deterioration needs to be repaired immediately. Newport Beach officials said that the city has received the proper authorization from the California Coastal Commission to issue emergency permits for these repairs and extensions.  

Drivers of electric vehicles that use lithium-ion batteries should move these vehicles to higher ground. This includes golf carts and e-bikes. It is important not to try to operate or charge vehicles or batteries that have been exposed to water until they have been professionally inspected. 

Be sure to stay away from any battery that shows signs of damage or that is smoking. Call 911 immediately, as these flooded lithium-ion batteries could be a fire risk.

Minor leaks may be treated with a temporary pump. If your budget allows, consider purchasing one of these pumps if you live in a high-risk flood area. However, city officials are quick to note that these consumer pumps are not strong enough to manage major flooding or seawall overtopping.

It goes without saying that you should avoid flooded streets. Never attempt to drive through flood waters. Not only is this dangerous, but vehicle wakes can exacerbate existing flooding.

Lastly, do not try to boat in Newport Harbor during times of very high tides. The boat wakes are capable of pushing water over seawalls and onto waterfront properties.

These cycles of high tides are likely to continue through the winter. The intensifying El Niño is responsible for flooding in communities such as Newport Beach.

Stay with us as we continue to follow all of these developments.

Weather changes fast, so help your community stay prepared. Share this story with friends, family, or your group chat, and keep your forecast in the now with Weather Forecast Now.