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Date: Jan. 3, 2025
Kitsap County crews monitor upcoming possible high king tides in Kitsap County
(Port Orchard, WA) - Kitsap County crews are monitoring the next cycle of king tides which are expected to return to Kitsap County this weekend. At this time of the year, the combination of high tides, heavy rain, and the gravitational pull between the Earth and the moon can cause a phenomenon known as king tides. The tides will be the highest between Jan. 4 - 6.
When king tides coincide with storms featuring low atmospheric pressure, tides can surpass predicted levels. This exact combination triggered coastal flooding in Kitsap County in December 2022. The National Weather Service does not anticipate any flooding along the interior coast this weekend.
Kitsap County crews are at Point No Point Park daily to ensure the tide gates are functioning and the sandbag walls remain intact. The marshes and wetlands are saturated from recent rains and stormwater, but all systems are operational. While we cannot control the height of tides or excessive rain, residents can take proactive steps to prepare for potential flooding impacts.
Visit the Kitsap County Department of Emergency Management webpage to learn how to protect your family, pets, and property from flooding. Stay informed by signing up to receive inclement weather information and preparedness tips by email and text through the Kitsap County Electronic Notification System.
Tips for Residents
- Update emergency plans for your family, farm or business and choose a meeting place in case family members get separated.
- Have sandbags on hand to help protect your home – Kitsap County does not distribute sand bags.
- Gather emergency supplies – prepare to both remain on your property with at least two weeks of supplies and food and also prepare a Go-Bag if you need to evacuate.
- Talk to your neighbors so that you can be ready to support each other.
- Move vehicles, equipment, and livestock/pets to higher ground. Store valuables, kayaks, and household chemicals above flood levels.
- Anchor and secure propane tanks and other fuel containers.
- Install check valves in building sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up in sewer drains.
- Help our Public Works crews by maintaining storm drains in front of your property. If you see a clogged storm drain, use a rake, shovel handle, or stick to clear the drain. Never remove a storm drain lid and do not wade into water if you're unsure of the depth.
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