Body of News Release
Marin County, CA – Seasonal king tides are forecast to impact Marin County Thursday, January 29 through Monday, February 2, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
King tides are the highest tides of the year and can cause temporary flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas, particularly along the Bay shoreline, near creeks, and in locations that have experienced flooding during past king tide events. Tides may reach levels high enough to flood some coastal and bayside roadways.
Flooding may affect roads and parking areas, especially during peak tide periods, and could impact commute times and travel plans. Impacts may increase if king tides coincide with rainfall.
Coastal communities and areas historically susceptible to flooding have a higher likelihood of being affected, particularly where signs of sea level rise has increased tidal flooding during seasonal king tides. Some of the locations that have experienced king tide flooding in the past include North San Pedro Road through China Camp in San Rafael, Canal neighborhood of San Rafael, Greenwood Cove Drive in Tiburon, Lucky Drive in Greenbrae, Redwood Highway at Greenbrae Boardwalk, Marin City, the Mill Valley-Sausalito pathway, and the Manzanita Park & Ride lot (a Caltrans property) near Tam Junction.
County officials are urging residents and businesses in affected areas to take steps now to prepare.
How to Prepare Before King Tides
- Get sandbags early. Sandbags are available at locations throughout Marin County. Find locations at our Marin Emergency Sandbags webpage.
- Clear drains, gutters, and driveways of leaves and debris to help water drain more quickly.
- Move vehicles to higher ground if you live or work in a flood-prone area.
- Test sump pumps and drainage systems and have emergency supplies ready.
- Stay informed by signing up for local alerts and checking updates at Emergency.MarinCounty.gov.
Safety During King Tides
- Residents are encouraged to limit travel during peak tide periods and use caution if flooding occurs.
- Never drive or walk through flooded roads — Turn Around, Don’t Drown.
- Keep children and pets out of floodwater.
- Check road conditions at 511.org before traveling.
- In an emergency, call 911.
King tides are a natural and recurring event, but preparation can reduce damage and help keep the community safe.
Southern Marin Higher Ground Parking Options
Residents in flood-prone neighborhoods of Southern Marin, such as waterfront Sausalito properties, are encouraged to plan ahead and use higher-ground parking options when available during peak King Tide periods. Community members should monitor local conditions, move vehicles as needed, and allow extra time for parking, particularly during the highest tides.
Parks
- Sausalito Dog Park – 100 Ebbtide
- Dunphy Park – Bridgeway at Napa Street
- Marinship Park – 2201 Marinship Way
- MLK Park – 610 Coloma Street
Street Parking
- West side of the 1700 block of Bridgeway, from Easterby to Napa Street
- East side of Bridgeway, from Marinship Way to 2300 Bridgeway
- West side of Bridgeway, from Spring Street to Olive Street
For updates, preparedness tips, and resources, visit Emergency.MarinCounty.gov or ReadyMarin.MarinCounty.gov.