Coastal areas experience extreme sea levels during annual tidal peak events
King tides are expected to occur daily this week, causing potential coastal flooding in South Florida. The tides will be at their highest on Thursday and Friday mornings, with water levels predicted to be a foot higher than usual. This is due to the full moon aligning with the sun, resulting in more significant tidal swings.
The moon’s elliptical orbit is also a contributing factor, as it is currently closer to the Earth’s surface, exerting a stronger pull on ocean water. High tides at Port Everglades are forecasted to occur at specific times each day, including 6:40 a.m. and 6:47 p.m. on Tuesday, and 8:21 a.m. and 8:26 p.m. on Thursday.
South Florida has experienced consistently higher-than-predicted tides over the past month, according to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Strong easterly winds earlier in October also contributed to higher king tides, but this week’s winds are expected to come from the north and northeast, likely having less of an effect.
The National Weather Service has forecasted high winds of up to 28 mph as a cold front passes through the area. Additional king tides are predicted for November 18-20 and December 2-7, although this week’s tides are expected to be more significant. The king tides will continue through next Monday, with the moon being at its fullest on Wednesday.