King tides, also called perigean spring tides or flood tides, are the highest tides of the year. They occur when the moon is closest to the Earth and the sun and Earth are aligned, resulting in the strongest gravitational pull on the Earth’s waters. King tides can cause flooding in low-lying coastal areas, especially during storms. In Oregon, king tides are expected to be particularly high in 2025 due to a combination of factors, including rising sea levels and a strong El Nio event. These tides could cause significant flooding and damage to coastal infrastructure and property.
King tides are an important reminder of the power of the ocean and the need to protect our coastal communities. By understanding the causes and effects of king tides, we can take steps to mitigate their impacts and build more resilient communities.
