Unusually High Tides Put Santa Barbara Beaches and Harbor on Flood Watch

High tides approaching 8 feet, combined with large surf, could flood low-lying beaches, parking areas and walkways along Santa Barbara’s coast through Thursday. A National Weather Service advisory covers Santa Barbara, Ventura and Los Angeles counties. Harbor officials are monitoring vulnerable areas and preparing for additional high-water periods later this season.

Santa Barbara braces for tidal surge

Santa Barbara Harbor tides nearly reached the bottom of a loading dock Monday, at about 8 feet. Harbor Way businesses and the West Beach parking lot could be affected. The National Weather Service issued the advisory Monday, warning that unusually high tides could inundate low-lying coastal areas and beach facilities.

In Santa Barbara Harbor, water rose close to the bottom of a loading dock before falling to around 6 feet in the early afternoon, according to Harbor Patrol Lt. Ryan Kelly. Large surf in some coastal areas may increase the risk of more serious flooding. In Los Angeles County, the San Pedro tide gauge recorded 8.02 feet Monday morning, exceeding its previous record of 7.93 feet, set in 2005, the weather service reported.

Harbor defenses and future forecasts

Harbor Patrol officials say the marina’s sea wall shields many boats from large waves, while space between docks and protective boat fenders can help limit damage as vessels move with the water. Kelly said harbor drainage systems performed well during recent rain, though flooding could still affect Harbor Way businesses and the West Beach parking lot.

Sand berms have been built along the waterfront to protect vulnerable spots. If conditions deteriorate, the Harbor Patrol and the city’s Public Works department plan to coordinate updates for nearby businesses and visitors. The city can also provide sandbags to harbor businesses if needed.

Kelly said the current conditions are an early indication of what officials expect during the season. The Harbor Patrol is preparing for a wet winter, with additional flooding possible around Halloween weekend and Thanksgiving. Kelly also pointed to El Niño conditions and a Kelvin wave as contributing factors to ocean inundation.

Some boat owners said they were not especially concerned about the immediate outlook, citing harbor protections and the room available at floating docks. Officials, however, are watching for changing surf and tide conditions that could make localized flooding more likely.