Take Time to be Prepared for King Tides in your Neighborhood

Every winter, the highest tides of the year—known as King Tides—return to Marin’s shoreline communities, offering a glimpse of our future sea levels and a reminder to stay prepared for flooding. This year’s King Tides are expected to occur in early December 2025 and mid-January 2026, with tides reaching over 6.8 feet in some areas.

A district-wide King Tides mailing will be arriving in mailboxes soon with preparedness tips, and flood safety information for every household. To download a digital copy, please click here.

Understanding King Tides

King Tides happen when the sun, moon, and Earth align at their closest points, pulling ocean waters higher than usual. While these tides are a natural and predictable phenomenon, they can cause localized flooding, especially when paired with heavy rain, wind, or storm surge.

In Southern Marin, low-lying neighborhoods, roadways, parking lots, and waterfront properties are most affected—particularly in areas such as Sausalito, Mill Valley, Tam Valley, and Strawberry. During King Tides, even routine high tides can back up storm drains, inundate intersections, and block emergency access routes.

What You Can Do

Southern Marin Fire District encourages residents and businesses to take proactive steps now:

• Check tide predictions at https://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/
• Avoid driving through flooded roads. Just six inches of moving water can sweep a vehicle away.
• Secure belongings and move valuables to higher ground.
• Sign up for emergency alerts through AlertMarin.org and Nixle.

Report flooding or blocked drains to your local Department of Public Works.

Why King Tides Matter
King Tides offer a preview of what everyday tides may look like as sea levels rise due to climate change. Documenting these events helps scientists and planners understand local vulnerabilities and plan for future resilience. Residents can participate by photographing flooded areas and uploading them to the California King Tides Project+

Be Prepared, Stay Informed
Even minor flooding can disrupt transportation and emergency access, which is why the Southern Marin Fire District emphasizes preparedness, awareness, and coordination during high-tide events. The District continues to work closely with Marin County Flood Control, City of Sausalito, and local emergency services to monitor tide impacts and ensure community safety.