Roll out the shoreline — King Tides are set to return to San Diego’s beaches tomorrow through Friday, Jan. 12.
The phenomenon refers to exceptionally high tides linked to the moon and sun’s gravitational pull . The National Weather Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predict the tides could soar even higher than last month’s high surf .
So, the agencies have issued two advisories:
- High Surf — in effect from 8 p.m. tonight to 6 p.m. tomorrow for breaking waves up to 7 ft, with occasional sets up to 11 ft. The highest surf is expected in southern San Diego County.
- Coastal Flood — in effect 4 a.m.-12 p.m. tomorrow for potential flooding in lots, parks, and roads around SD’s beach communities.
King Tides are predicted to peak at 8:10 a.m. tomorrow, with a high tide of at least 6.7 ft. As always, use caution during King Tides and follow warnings from local lifeguards.
According to the California King Tides Project , the weather event helps researchers visualize future sea level — and you can help by sharing your tide photos .
The California King Tides Project is hosting special events to safely observe the tides this week. Join the local meet-up — Wandering the King Tides presented by the San Diego Audubon Society — this Friday, Jan. 12, 8-10 a.m., at Kendall-Frost Marsh at 2055 Pacific Beach Dr.; register ahead of time.
This week’s tides come on the heels of high surf that pummeled San Diego’s coastline late last month, including the Ocean Beach Pier , which remains closed .
The city temporarily closed Crystal Pier during that event, and it also led to lots of sand build-up on Mission Beach Boardwalk — like, so much it was difficult to bike the path. The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department performed 96 rescues during that stretch, too.
Another round of King Tides is expected in SD in mid-February.