Elevated tides may cause minor flooding in low-lying coastal areas through this week
By Coastal Carolina News Staff Writer
Residents and visitors along the Carolina coast may notice higher-than-normal water levels this week as a king tide cycle affects portions of coastal North Carolina and South Carolina.
The current king tide event follows the recent full moon and is expected to produce some of the highest astronomical tides of the season.
Coastal flood advisories have been issued for portions of Brunswick County and Horry County, where minor flooding is possible in low-lying areas during high tide.
Unlike flooding caused by tropical systems or heavy rainfall, king tides occur naturally when the gravitational forces of the sun, moon, and Earth align to produce exceptionally high tides. According to NOAA, king tides are among the highest tides experienced during the year.
Along the Brunswick Islands, residents may encounter elevated water levels near marshes, tidal creeks, waterfront roads, and sections of the Intracoastal Waterway.
Similar conditions can occur across the Grand Strand, particularly in low-lying coastal areas such as Cherry Grove, North Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet, and other communities vulnerable to tidal flooding.
Coastal flood advisories have been issued for both coastal Brunswick and Horry counties.
For many longtiime coastal residents, these events are a familiar part of life along the water. New residents and visitors, however, are often surprised to find roads, parking areas, and boat landings partially covered by saltwater despite clear weather.
Officials encourage motorists to avoid driving through flooded roadways and to use caution around waterfront areas during periods of high tide. Boaters should also be aware that exceptionally high tides are often followed by unusually low tides that can affect navigation in shallow waterways.
Forecasters expect the elevated tide cycle to gradually ease later this week as water levels return to more typical conditions.
Sources: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Weather Service, North Carolina King Tides Project.
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