The return of high and low tides – often called “king tides” – along with large breaking waves mean local beaches are under a high surf and coastal flood advisory through Thursday, Jan 11. 

The king tides, explained by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration as “perigean spring tides” marked by the unusually large difference between the high tide and low tide, will have their largest showing this season Jan 11, 12 and 13. 

At 8:15 a.m. Jan 11, high tide is expected at 6.7 feet, as noted by the National Weather Service, with swells of 5 to 7 feet, with occasional sets 8 to 11 feet.

Minor coastal flooding is expected, along with dangerous swimming and surfing conditions and localized beach erosion.

The king tides will also bring very low tides in the late afternoons, affording opportunities to view tidepools and other coastal points normally underwater.