Monster Tides Flood Bay Area Roads and Properties
A coastal flood advisory remains in effect as elevated sea levels and storm surges inundate low-lying areas.
Monster tides have caused widespread flooding across the Bay Area, inundating roads, backyards, and even athletic fields. The National Weather Service has extended a coastal flood advisory through Sunday, impacting the California coast from Santa Rosa to Monterey.
Up to 1.9 feet of flooding above ground level is possible in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways during peak high tides. The San Pablo, San Francisco, and Monterey bays are particularly affected, with flooding expected to persist until 6 p.m. Sunday.
Residents have described the current deluge as one of the most serious they have experienced in years. "This is one of the highest tides I’ve ever seen. I’ve been here since 1976," said Corte Madera resident Suzi Beatie.
The flooding is attributed in part to a stronger-than-usual El Niño season, which can cause elevated sea levels to combine with heavy winter storm surges. Aerial footage has captured scenes of flooded roads, submerged backyards, and partially submerged football fields.
In Sausalito, a parking lot near the houseboats was completely submerged, and a flower delivery van became stalled in the high water. Public works crews have been working to mitigate the situation by deploying sandbags to protect flood-prone properties.
Marin County, situated between the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay, is particularly vulnerable. The county has issued an El Niño emergency proclamation, with communities like Corte Madera, Larkspur, and Tiburon also adopting similar declarations. These declarations aim to expedite resources and facilitate potential state and federal assistance.
Some homeowners are investing in long-term solutions, such as raising their homes. One resident plans to elevate his home by approximately 3 feet to eliminate flood risk and enhance resale value.
Officials anticipate that the upcoming King Tides around Thanksgiving will present further challenges, and efforts are underway to prepare and minimize potential damage.