MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WMBF) – There is likely to be minor flooding on the coast for the next few days as King Tides continues.
A coastal flood warning is in effect until 10:00 this morning for the coastal districts of Horry and Georgetown.
In low-lying areas near coastlines and tidal waterways, up to half a foot of stagnant salt water is expected. Minor coastal flooding may occur along vulnerable causeways to and from local beaches. Low-lying roads and locations along the Intracoastal Waterway and adjacent tidal streams can also observe minor coastal flooding.
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The most likely areas for coastal flooding include the regions along the Cherry Grove canals, as well as Garden City and Pawleys Island.
Further flood warnings on the coast are also likely to be issued for the Friday and Saturday morning high tide.
King tides are expected to last until November 8th, when the moon approaches its new phase.
King Tides occur when the orbits and orientations of the Earth, Moon and Sun together create the largest tidal effects of the year. King Tide brings unusually high water levels at high tide and can often result in local tidal flooding. Existing weather patterns can often exacerbate coastal flooding.
At Myrtle Beach, the average tide height is around 5.5 feet, while the tide can reach 7 feet or more during a King Tide event. A 7-foot tide marks the beginning of a minor coastal flood. Moderate coastal flooding begins when the tide reaches 8.5 feet and larger floods begin at 3.50 feet.
Thursday morning’s tide (around 7:00 a.m.) is expected to produce a 7.6-foot tide. Until the high tide on Friday morning (around 8:00 a.m.) a tide level of almost 2.40 m is forecast. The tides are likely to stay high over the weekend as well.
When the tide is over 8 feet (2.70 m), stagnant salt water is typically created in the low-lying and flood-prone areas of Grand Strand.
Coastal flood warnings are likely to be issued for Thursday and Friday morning floods and may be extended through the weekend.
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