Thursday, March 28, 2024

Coastal flooding expected as King Tide arrives on the shores of Victoria (VIDEO)

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The King Tide has officially arrived on the shores of Greater Victoria.

On December 27th at around 9 a.m., a King Tide is expected to peak on the shores of Vancouver Island and Southern Gulf Islands. 

This means flooding is expected and could be already affecting certain areas near the shoreline. 

The higher-than-normal tides can occur due to the orbit of the earth and the alignment of the sun and moon. King Tides typically take place two or three times per year on the coast of BC.

According to a spokesperson for the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness (EMCR), they are monitoring forecasts closely and working directly with First Nations and local authorities to support any precautionary measures needed.

On December 26th, the King Tide combined with high winds brought harsh waters to North Saanich causing damage to some private docks.

Footage from North Saanich shows the King Tide in full effect as it damages docks during a windstorm today. Susan Ko who captured the video said the storm took out her lower deck. Another windstorm is expected throughout the day Tuesday and with the King Tide expected around 9 a.m., authorities are warning of possible flooding in some areas.

Posted by Victoria Buzz on Monday, December 26, 2022

“Communities are taking precautionary actions and making sand and sandbags available if needed,” said the EMCR in a statement. 

“At this time, there are no outstanding requests to EMCR from communities on this matter but we’re in communication with local partners and ready to support if required.”

Greater Victoria has a wind warning in effect for the region, which will add fuel to the King Tide’s fire and cause larger waves in the already high waters. 

Environment Canada also has a special weather statement in effect for Eastern Vancouver Island due to the high waters and wind. 

According to the meteorological authority, coastal flooding is to be expected.

“There is a high confidence of coastal flooding near the Strait of Georgia near high tide this morning,” said Environment Canada. 

“These water levels can cause damage to coastal infrastructure in low lying areas, especially at locations prone to impacts during similar events in the past.”

“Swells and enhanced wave action carrying debris may cause damage to coastal infrastructure. East to southeast facing coastline may see larger waves and higher localized flooding.”

The King Tide is estimated to last into the late afternoon on December 27th.

mm
Curtis Blandy
curtis@victoriabuzz.com

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