King tides and strong northeast winds are causing significant flooding concerns across Northeast Florida, with impacts that a National Weather Service forecaster says resemble those of a tropical storm.
Coastal flooding warnings have been extended through Wednesday, with communities in St. Johns, Nassau, Duval and Flagler counties listed among the most vulnerable areas.
What is a king tide?
A king tide is an unusually high tide that, on its own, can cause flooding in low-lying and coastal areas. When combined with rain and strong winds, the effects can be amplified significantly — impacting not just beaches, but neighborhoods, roadways and areas near rivers and waterways.
Jacksonville’s Southbank neighborhood is among the areas considered especially vulnerable. Its proximity to the St. Johns River puts it at risk of tidal flooding even during dry weather conditions.
Kayaks on the street
The flooding is already affecting daily life for some residents. Cindy Wallace Bayly captured images from her home on Coquina Avenue showing neighbors using kayaks to reach their homes.
Wallace Bayly said she experienced about two hours of flooding during high tide the previous night and was already beginning to see water rising again the following morning.
In Fernandina Beach, the city shared photos over the weekend showing flooding along Front and Center streets, with water visibly rising up along the train tracks in that area.
Government offices close, warnings extended
In St. Augustine, City Hall and several government offices will not open until noon due to flooding concerns in the area.
St. Johns County has also issued a public safety notice in response to the conditions.
Coastal flooding warnings have been extended through Wednesday. Residents are encouraged to monitor conditions both on air and online for updates.
Travel tips for commuters
For those navigating flood-prone neighborhoods on their way to work or school, officials are urging drivers to check road conditions before leaving home and to identify alternate routes in advance.
Leaving earlier than usual is also recommended in the event road closures require a detour. Most importantly, officials are reminding drivers not to attempt to cross flooded roadways.
“If you encounter a flooded road — don’t drive through it,” officials said.
