Sunny Day Flooding!

King Tides and High Tides

are back!

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King Tides and High Tides in Our Community

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With seven miles of shoreline; 300 miles of waterway coastline; a flat topography; and shallow, porous aquifer, Fort Lauderdale is vulnerable to the effects of climate change and sea level rise. Flooding in low-lying areas is more likely when the close proximity of the moon, higher than average tides called king tides, rising sea levels, and inclement weather conditions combine to exacerbate flooding risks. Rainfall and wind strength and direction can have a significant impact on the height of the tides causing them to come in higher or lower than predicted. Also note that high water tables (groundwater level) due to rain events can raise the probability of localized flooding. 

 

Predicted 2024 King Tides

 

Each year, the City of Fort Lauderdale reviews the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) predicted tide elevations. This year, king tides are predicted on at least 33 days. While these dates reflect the current prediction for seasonal higher tides, greater than average tides can occur anytime of the year under varying conditions.

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• September 16-23

• October 14-22

• October 30 - November 3

• November 12-19

• December 13-15

 

Since higher tides are possible on both the new moon and the full moon, the following are additional dates to watch where tides may have the potential to cause inundation on low-lying roads:

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Spring Tides

• January 12

• March 10-12

• April 7-10

• May 6-9

Summer Tides

• August 18-25

Fall Tides 

• October 2-7

How Neighbors Can Prepare

 

Neighbors are advised to be vigilant during high tides and king tides. Please take the time to be aware of the anticipated king tide dates, review important safety tips, evaluate your property's readiness, and review your flood insurance policy.  

During high tides, neighbors are reminded to closely monitor their waste carts, and to remove them from the street as quickly as possible after they are emptied. If your street floods, you may want to store your sanitation carts in a safe and secure location until your next regularly scheduled collection day. View the sanitation service tips page for more information.

 

Property Protection

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Precautions you can take to protect your property from damage and reduce financial losses include:

• Purchase flood insurance

• Address property drainage concerns which may include regrading your lot (permit may be required)

• Construct barriers, such as a floodwall to stop floodwater from entering the building

• Relocate electrical panel boxes, air conditioners, water heaters, and washers and dryers to elevated locations

• Install check valves in private drainage systems to prevent floodwater from backing up into private properties

• Install storm shutters, impact windows, and a reinforced garage door for wind and rain events

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The City responds to flood protection inquiries. If you have a question regarding flood, sewer or drainage problems, contact the City of Fort Lauderdale Customer Service Center at 954-828-8000.

 

How Neighbors Can Stay Safe​

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• Avoid walking through flood waters, it is dangerous and can be a health hazard

• Avoid driving through flooded areas, turn around and find another way; in addition to being a threat to life safety, the salt water can lead to both short and long-term damage to your vehicle

• Follow posted road closure and detour signs

• Do not drive around barriers, damaging private lawns

• If you drive through flooded areas, please note that creating waves can cause additional damage to surrounding landscaping and property

• Be careful around manhole covers, as they can become dislodged by the high tides  

• Boaters are advised that high tides cause lower clearance under fixed bridges, check the tides before leaving the dock