King Tides And The Rising Risk Of Flooding - Coastal Flood Advisory In Effect Through December 16th

Understanding King Tides

King Tides are an annual phenomenon, marked by unusually high tides that occur when the moon is closest to Earth in its elliptical orbit. This proximity amplifies the gravitational pull on Earth’s oceans, resulting in higher-than-normal tides. While these tides are a natural occurrence, they can have a significant impact on coastal areas, especially those already vulnerable to flooding.

Hollywood is particularly susceptible to tidal flooding due to its flat topography and proximity to the coast. The city boasts seven miles of shoreline and nearly 8 miles of canals, making it highly vulnerable to Sea Level Rise and tidal inundation. As climate change contributes to Rising Sea Levels, these events are becoming more frequent and more severe, posing ongoing challenges to coastal communities.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has predicted above-average high tides for several periods between now and mid-December, including:

• November 12th - November 19th
• December 13th - December 16th

These high tides are expected to cause tidal flooding in low-lying coastal areas, especially during the times of highest tide. Coastal roads, parking lots, and docks are especially vulnerable. Flooding can also affect local Infrastructure, including stormwater systems, creating challenges for both residents and city officials.

The anticipated high tides could raise water levels by more than 2.5 feet in some areas, exacerbating the already significant flooding risks. Motorists are urged to use caution and avoid flooded streets during these times. Flooding is most likely to occur during the hours of peak tide, and it may persist for several hours depending on weather conditions, including rainfall and wind.

While King Tides are the primary cause of seasonal tidal flooding, they can be further influenced by other weather factors, particularly rainfall and wind strength. Heavy rainfall can lead to runoff, which, combined with high tides, can overwhelm stormwater drainage systems and increase the flooding risk. Wind can also play a significant role: winds blowing onshore (from the ocean toward land) can push additional water inland, exacerbating the height of the tides and flooding in vulnerable coastal areas.

These compounded effects make tidal flooding particularly unpredictable, and it’s important for residents to stay informed of weather forecasts and tide predictions during these periods of heightened risk.

Hollywood is one of many coastal communities grappling with the effects of climate change, which has caused Rising Sea Levels over recent decades. The city’s **flat topography** and a large network of canals and waterways mean that water has few natural barriers or elevated areas to flow toward. As a result, tidal flooding can easily spread across the city’s streets, particularly in neighborhoods located closest to the coast.

City of Hollywood’s Flood Mitigation Efforts

To address the ongoing risks of tidal flooding, the City of Hollywood has been actively working on both short-term and long-term solutions to mitigate the impacts. One significant project already completed is the installation of flap gates in the city’s stormwater system. These gates are designed to prevent tidal water from flowing back into the stormwater drains, reducing the amount of water that floods streets during high tide events.

In addition to flap gates, the city has also deployed auxiliary pumps in high-risk areas. These pumps help to remove flood water from streets quickly, reducing the duration of flooding and minimizing its impact on local residents and businesses. These pumps are particularly important during periods of high tide when the natural drainage system is overwhelmed by rising waters.

On a larger scale, the city is investing in flood protection Infrastructure and planning for long-term climate adaptation. Efforts include elevating roads, installing sea walls, and enhancing the stormwater management system to better cope with Rising Sea Levels. These projects are part of a broader strategy to prepare for the future and reduce the risks posed by both King Tides and permanent Sea Level Rise.

What Residents Can Do

While the city works to implement these flood mitigation measures, residents and businesses can take steps to protect themselves and minimize the impact of tidal flooding. Here are a few key recommendations:

1. Stay Informed: Monitor local weather reports and tide predictions to be aware of when high tides are expected.
2. Prepare for Flooding: If you live in a flood-prone area, consider installing flood barriers or elevating critical utilities above potential flood levels.
3. Avoid Flooded Areas: Never attempt to drive or walk through flooded streets, as they may be deeper than they appear or contain hidden hazards.
4. Help Prevent Drainage Blockages: Keep storm drains and gutters clear of debris to help facilitate drainage during rainstorms.
5. Stay Safe: During times of high tides and severe weather, stay indoors when possible to avoid dangerous conditions.

The Coastal Flood Advisory serves as an important reminder of the vulnerability of coastal communities to tidal flooding. King Tides, Rising Sea Levels, and the unpredictability of weather all contribute to the increasing risk of flooding in low-lying areas.

For more information about Flood Awareness in Hollywood, visit: https://www.hollywoodfl.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1515

Mayor Josh Levy of Hollywood spoke about King Tides in a video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7IM-vDX-Zf8