South Florida experienced an unprecedented king tide on Tuesday, with Miami and Fort Lauderdale seeing water levels rise roughly 2.5 feet (76 cm) above the usual high tide. The National Weather Service (NWS) has classified this as a "major coastal flood."
Reports from the Tampa Bay Times and WSVN indicated that this surge coincided with the full moon on October 26, along with sustained winds of 25 to 30 mph and gusts exceeding 40 mph, which drove additional ocean water inland. The ground was already saturated from prior rainfalls, exacerbating the situation.
The tide gauge at Virginia Key in Miami recorded its highest level outside of a hurricane since its installation in 1994. Meanwhile, Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale set a new record since its operations began in 2018, hitting 2.48 feet (about 76 centimeters) above the average of higher high tides.
In Miami Beach, North Bay Road was closed to traffic, and the 5300 block of Collins Avenue remained submerged for hours.
Disruptions in Fort Lauderdale
In Fort Lauderdale, the water overflowed the Riverwalk promenade, disrupting morning strolls. Las Olas Boulevard forced drivers to find alternate routes, and "No Wake" signs were posted on Las Olas and Isle of Palms Drive. Parts of Victoria Park were inundated, leaving residents stranded in their homes.
Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue deployed high-clearance vehicles across the city, responding to several emergencies, including rescuing people from flooded homes.
Ongoing Flood Warnings
The NWS coastal flood warning for Miami-Dade and Broward remains in effect until 8:00 p.m. EDT Wednesday. A separate coastal advisory is in place for the Florida Keys.
Authorities advise residents and drivers in low-lying areas to avoid crossing flooded streets, even if the water seems shallow, as it may conceal potholes or currents. They also recommend parking on higher ground before high tide and not circumventing barricades.
Vehicle owners are warned not to start their engines if their cars have been in contact with saltwater. Instead, they should document the damage with photos and contact their insurance providers.
Jason Box, a climatologist from Nova Southeastern University, noted that high tides in South Florida have risen by about an extra foot since 1993, meaning that today's "normal" king tides flood areas that were previously dry.
The advance notice published on Saturday, October 24, had already forecasted heavy rain, 40 mph gusts, and a flood risk.
Understanding South Florida's King Tide Flooding
What caused the record-breaking king tide in South Florida?
The king tide coincided with a full moon and strong winds of 25 to 30 mph, along with gusts over 40 mph, driving additional ocean water inland. The ground was already saturated from previous rain, worsening the impact.
How did authorities respond to the flooding in Fort Lauderdale?
Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue deployed high-clearance vehicles throughout the city and responded to multiple emergencies, including rescuing individuals from flooded residences.
What precautions should residents take during a king tide?
Residents are advised to avoid driving through flooded streets, park on higher ground, and not bypass barricades. Vehicle owners should avoid starting engines if their cars have been in saltwater contact, document any damage, and contact their insurance company.