San Francisco Bay Area — Coastal communities across the Bay Area are being urged to prepare for rising water levels as King Tides return around the New Year, bringing an elevated risk of minor coastal flooding through the first weekend of 2026.
The National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Advisory covering the Pacific coastline from Sonoma County through Monterey County, as well as shoreline areas along the San Francisco Bay. The advisory is scheduled to remain in effect from 5 a.m. on New Year’s Eve through 2 p.m. on Sunday, January 4.
Forecasters say the combination of astronomical forces and incoming weather systems will push tides higher than normal, particularly during morning high tides.
Why King Tides Are Expected to Be Strong This Year
According to the National Weather Service, several rare factors are aligning to amplify tidal levels at the start of 2026.
King Tides are expected due to:
- A full moon occurring Saturday
- The moon being closest to Earth on New Year’s Day
- Perihelion, when Earth is closest to the sun, also occurring Saturday
Together, these events intensify gravitational forces on Earth’s oceans, leading to significantly higher-than-normal tides along coastal regions.
Meteorologists say this year’s King Tides may be further enhanced by weather conditions.
Storm System May Add to Flood Risk
In addition to the astronomical drivers, forecasters are tracking a low-pressure system approaching Northern California later this week. That system is expected to bring strong onshore winds, which can push seawater inland and create storm surge.
The National Weather Service noted that forecasts already include up to 0.5 feet of possible storm surge, which could worsen flooding in vulnerable locations.
“The combination of these factors will bring minor coastal flooding to the low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways during high tide Wednesday through Sunday,” the Weather Service said.
Expected Tide Levels Across San Francisco Bay
Tide forecasts show water levels rising steadily through the holiday period, especially during morning hours.
At the San Francisco tidal gauge, high tide is expected to reach:
- 1.5 feet above normal at 7:51 a.m. Wednesday
- 1.7 feet above normal at 8:41 a.m. on New Year’s Day
- 1.8 feet above normal at 9:34 a.m. Friday
- 1.8 feet above normal again at 10:26 a.m. Saturday
- 1.6 feet above normal at 11:18 a.m. Sunday
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Even small increases above normal tide levels can flood roads, parking lots, walking paths, and parks in low-lying coastal zones.
Areas Most Vulnerable to Flooding
Officials say flooding is expected to remain minor but disruptive, particularly in areas already known to experience King Tide impacts.
Flood-prone locations include:
- Bayside neighborhoods
- Coastal roadways and parking areas
- Shoreline trails and boardwalks
- Tidal creeks and estuaries
Water may temporarily pool on streets during peak tides, especially where drainage systems are overwhelmed or blocked.
Safety Guidance for Residents and Travelers
Emergency officials are urging residents to take precautionary steps throughout the advisory period.
Recommended actions include:
- Protecting flood-prone property
- Moving vehicles away from low-lying areas
- Avoiding driving through standing water
- Never driving around barricades
Authorities stress that water depth can be deceptive, and even shallow flooding can damage vehicles or sweep them off the roadway.
Drivers should plan travel carefully during morning high tides and allow extra time near waterfront routes.
Looking Ahead Through Early January
The Coastal Flood Advisory remains in place through Sunday afternoon, with the highest impacts expected during morning high tides each day. Conditions are expected to gradually improve once tidal cycles return to normal early next week.
Forecasters say King Tides also provide a preview of how rising sea levels may affect coastal infrastructure in the future, making them an important event for long-term planning.
Are you noticing higher water levels or flooding near your part of the Bay Area? Share what you’re seeing in the comments below.
