High Tides and Storm Surge Could Flood Northern California Coast

A stretch of coastal Northern and Central California is under a coastal flood advisory as elevated tides and lingering storm surge increase the risk of shoreline flooding through the end of the week.

The National Weather Service San Francisco issued the advisory early Tuesday, warning that up to 1.8 feet of inundation above ground level is possible in low-lying areas from Wednesday morning through Sunday afternoon. Impacted areas include Point Reyes National Seashore, the San Francisco Bay shoreline, the San Francisco Peninsula coast, San Francisco, northern Monterey Bay, and Big Sur.

Forecasters say a combination of astronomically high tides and about half a foot of storm surge will push water levels well above normal during morning high tides each day. Peak tides are expected to reach between 1.5 and 1.8 feet above normal, with the highest levels forecast from Friday through Saturday.

The NWS anticipates minor flooding of parking lots, parks, and low-lying roads, with isolated closures possible. Drivers are urged to allow extra travel time, avoid flooded roadways, and never drive through water of unknown depth.

Residents and visitors in flood-prone or coastal areas are advised to move to higher ground if needed and secure property ahead of peak tides. Officials stress that even shallow moving water can be dangerous, especially near shorelines and tidal waterways.

The advisory remains in effect until 2 p.m. Sunday, when tides are expected to gradually recede.