King Tides

What's a King Tide?

A king tide is a non-scientific term to describe uniquely high tides and waves. They bring unusually high water levels and can cause local tidal flooding.

Over time, sea-level rise is increasing the height of tidal systems. Average daily water levels are rising along with the oceans. And as a result, high tides are reaching higher and extending further inland than in past years.

King tides give us a preview of how sea-level rise will affect coastal places. As time goes by, the water level reached now during a king tide will be the water level reached at high tide on an average day. Low-lying shoreline development is at increased risk of flooding because of rising seas.

The investments that the city is making to protect against flood mitigation can do only so much. It cannot prevent or protect homes completely. Infrastructure in the city of Clearwater was created with lower sea-level rise in mind decades ago.

How Neighbors Can Prepare 

Neighbors are advised to be vigilant during high tides and king tides. Take the time to be aware of the anticipated king tide dates, review important safety tips, evaluate your property's readiness, and review your flood insurance policy. 

During high tides, neighbors are reminded to closely monitor their city-issued trash and recycling bins, and to remove them from the street as quickly as possible after they are emptied. If your street floods, you may want to store your solid waste bins in a safe and secure location until your next regularly scheduled collection day. 

Property Protection

Precautions you can take to protect your property from damage and reduce financial losses include:

• Purchase flood insurance.
• Address property drainage concerns which may include regrading your lot.
• Construct barriers, such as a floodwall to stop floodwater from entering the building.
• Relocate electrical panel boxes, air conditioners, water heaters, and washers and dryers to elevated locations.
• Install check valves in private drainage systems to prevent floodwater from backing up into private properties.
• Install storm shutters, impact windows, and a reinforced garage door for wind and rain events.
• Avoid storing chemicals and hazardous materials on the floor of your garage. Elevate them to shelving or upper levels if possible.

The city of Clearwater responds to flood protection inquiries. If you have a question regarding flooding, stormwater or drainage problems, contact the city of Clearwater's Public Works Department at (727) 562-4750.

How Neighbors Can Stay Safe

• Avoid walking through flood waters. It is dangerous and can be a health hazard.                              
• Avoid driving through flooded areas. Turn around, don't drown. In addition to being a threat to life safety, the salt water can lead to both short- and long-term damage to your vehicle.
• If you drive through areas with standing water, please know that creating waves can cause additional damage to surrounding homes and landscaping.
• Follow posted road closures and detour signs.
• Do not drive around barriers or damage private lawns.
• Be careful around manhole covers, as they can become dislodged by the high tides.
• Boaters are advised that high tides cause lower clearance under fixed bridges. Check the tides before leaving the dock.

Review additional information about flood insurance rate maps, coastal high hazard areas, property flood depths, natural conservation areas and wetlands, flood insurance, and floodplain management regulations.

Resources

NOAA Tides and Currents for Clearwater

What King Tides Mean for Tampa Bay