Rising 'King Tides' Prompt High Tide Warning For Boaters, Residents On And Around SF Bay

SAN FRANCISCO (CBS SF) -- Coastal areas around the San Francisco Bay will experience especially high tides, known also as 'king tides' this week. The rising waters have prompted a warning from the United States Coast Guard.

Spectators, boaters and residents should be careful careful on and around San Francisco Bay on January 19, 20 and 21, as high tides may cause flooding and affect property, Coast Guard officials said.

The peak tide times are generally in the mornings between 7 a.m. and noon. Coastal areas in Redwood City are expected to experience king tides as high as 9.37 feet.

The California King Tides website has a list of peak tide times and locations.

The high tides may cause minor flooding of coastal and bay front low-lying areas, such as parking lots and coastal trails and may affect the mooring and anchoring of boats and loose items near the water.

The situation has prompted the National Weather Service to issue a coastal flood statement.

The Coast Guard is asking the public, marina operators and vessel owners and operators to prepare for and be aware of the potential flooding.

"We recommend boat owners assess mooring and anchoring arrangements, and make appropriate adjustments if necessary," said Captain and Coast Guard Sector San Francisco Commander Greg Stump. "We also ask all property owners and waterside facilities to ensure loose items close to the waterline are removed, especially items that may contain fuels and hazardous materials," Stump said.

The Coast Guard is recommending that residents stay advised of tides and other weather conditions through the National Weather Service's website and that mariners monitor VHF-FM channel 16 for safety advisories.

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