WEST PALM BEACH, FL (September 7, 2021) – King Tides are predicted by climatological experts to periodically occur in South Florida between September and December 2021. This higher than normal tide occurs each year and, in the City of West Palm Beach, generally in the fall. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), South Florida residents in areas near the Intracoastal Waterway or low-elevation neighborhoods should expect King Tides which may cause flooding on streets or other areas.
WHAT IS A KING TIDE?
According to NOAA, a King Tide is a popular, non-scientific term often used to describe exceptionally high tides. Tides are long-period waves that roll around the planet as the ocean is “pulled” back and forth by the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun as these bodies interact with the Earth in their monthly and yearly orbits. Higher than normal tides typically occur during a new or full moon and when the moon is at its perigee, or during specific seasons around the country.
WHEN ARE KING TIDES EXPECTED?
NOAA uses a tide gauge based at the Lake Worth Pier to issue its tide projections. Based on the NOAA tide predictions, 2021 King Tides will occur in our area on the following dates:
- September 9-11
- October 5-11, 20-21
- November 3-9
- December 2-7
WHERE SHOULD I EXPECT KING TIDE FLOODING?
Flooding or ponding on streets or other areas near waterways and the coast may result from high water levels caused by King Tides.
PREPARING FOR KING TIDES
Follow these safety precautions:
- Do not walk through floodwaters.
- Do not drive through flood water if possible.
- During King Tide events, closely monitor your waste carts and recycling bins. Remove them from the curb as soon as possible after they are emptied.
HOW IS THE CITY ADDRESSING TIDAL FLOODING?
The city continues to upgrade its stormwater infrastructure system to address sea- level rise, extreme rain events, and aging infrastructure. Tidal valves are being installed in over a dozen locations in neighborhoods where tidal flooding has been witnessed. Tidal valves allow stormwater to drain and prevent ocean water, or water from the Intracoastal Waterway, from backing up into the stormwater pipe network. The first phase of the project was completed in 2020. Phase two of the project begins is scheduled to begin in late 2021.
In addition to undertaking flooding mitigation construction projects, city crews routinely monitor the city’s stormwater system to prevent or mitigate flooding.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
The city’s Office of Sustainability provides information about King Tides and how they work. For information about the Office of Sustainability, visit https://www.wpb.org/government/sustainability. To contact the Office of Sustainability, call (561) 804-4994 (TTY 800-955-8771) or email sustainability@wpb.org.
