KING TIDES PREVALENT IN OUR AREA MAY 24-28
Those who live in areas that typically experience flooding during very high tides should be aware that King Tides are prevalent in our area May 24-28.
The term "King Tide" is a non-scientific term used to describe the highest seasonal tides that occur each year. These tides occur naturally and are typically caused when a spring tide (when the sun, moon, and earth align during a new and full moon, increasing tide ranges) takes place when the moon is closest to Earth during the 28-day elliptical orbit known as perigee.
The effect of individual King Tides may vary considerably. In some cases, they may barely even be noticed. In other cases, a King Tide may cause coastal erosion, flooding of low-lying areas, and disruption to normal daily routines. This is particularly true when a King Tide event coincides with significant precipitation because water drainage and runoff are impeded. Over time, the frequency and effect of King Tide events may increase due to gradual mean sea level rise.
To access tide charts, please visit here: https://scdhec.gov/sites/default/files/Library/CR-006341_2021.pdf
Accompanying Photo: A King Tide begins to impact Cherry Grove in October 2015.