Follow-Up: Newport Beach Urges Preparation for Next King Tides, Nov. 23-27 Levels Could Top October Record by 12 Inches
The City of Newport Beach, in Orange County, California, on November 4 asked residents and property owners to take immediate precautions ahead of exceptionally high king tides expected Nov. 23-27 and Dec. 22-26 and into the new year, as ocean water levels could rise 12 inches or more above October's record-breaking high tide of 8.4 feet.
The city said the conditions could significantly increase the risk of coastal flooding in low-lying neighborhoods, waterfront areas and other flood-prone areas, including properties that did not experience flooding in October. Water overtopping or passing through even one low, damaged or deteriorating seawall could flood homes, vehicles, neighboring properties and streets, and property owners were asked to inspect their seawalls and take protective measures before the next high tide event.
City crews continue reinforcing protective sand berms, inspecting stormwater infrastructure, maintaining tide valves and pumping systems, and positioning sandbags, equipment and personnel in flood-prone areas, and staff will monitor coastal conditions and respond as needed. The city noted that these efforts cannot eliminate all potential impacts.
Residents were advised to place sandbags or temporary flood barriers along low seawalls, garages, doorways and other openings, and to check private drains and tide valves for potential backflow. Seawalls and bulkheads should be inspected for low sections, cracks, openings or deterioration and repaired as needed. The city has received authorization from the California Coastal Commission to issue emergency permits for seawall repairs and extensions, with streamlined plans and expedited permitting available through the Community Development Department at 949-644-3200. Temporary pumps can help manage minor leaks, the city said, but cannot manage seawall overtopping or major flooding.
On roads and waterways, the city warned residents never to drive through flooded streets, since vehicle wakes can push water onto nearby properties, and asked boaters to limit activity in Newport Harbor during exceptionally high tides because boat wakes can overtop seawalls. Vehicles, including electric vehicles, golf carts and e-bikes, should be moved to higher ground, because floodwater, especially saltwater, can damage lithium-ion batteries and create a fire risk even after the water recedes. A battery exposed to floodwater should not be operated or charged until inspected by a qualified professional, and anyone who sees discoloration, swelling or smoke should stay away and call 911.
Free, prefilled sandbags are available at the city's Corporation Yard, 592 Superior Ave, and empty sandbags are available at Newport Beach fire stations and Lifeguard Headquarters, 70 Newport Pier, while supplies last. Property owners are responsible for maintaining their private property, and the city cannot guarantee protection from flooding.
The Newport Beach City Council will hold a study session on Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 4 p.m. to discuss flood protection, public safety and emergency response plans for the upcoming king tide events. The city pointed residents to its flood preparedness and El Niño resources for upcoming king tide dates, anticipated water levels and sandbag information, encouraged sign-ups for Newport Notified emergency alerts, and said anyone facing an immediate threat to life or safety should call 911.
Source: City of Newport Beach
Published by GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
Photo: 图：Newport Beach 的 Upper Newport Bay。Zachary Crespin 摄，CC BY 4.0，经 Wikimedia Commons。 / Photo: Upper Newport Bay in Newport Beach. By Zachary Crespin, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
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