Newport Beach Tides Hit 7.7 Feet as Coastal Flood Warnings Extend to Friday

Newport Beach and other coastal communities in Orange and San Diego counties face continued flooding as unusually high tides reach 7.7 feet on Thursday morning. The National Weather Service has extended coastal flood alerts through Friday afternoon, with water levels running 1.4 to 1.6 feet above normal astronomical predictions. This surge threatens low-lying streets, residential homes, and local businesses along the shoreline.

The current conditions have already disrupted daily life in affected neighborhoods. Aerial footage from Wednesday showed floodwaters covering a street near Anchorage Way, reaching rows of houses. The NWS warns that numerous roads may close, and shoreline erosion is expected to worsen as the water remains elevated. The highest tide is anticipated around 11 a.m. on Thursday, marking the peak of the current warning period.

Local businesses have felt the immediate impact of the rising water. Henk Wiessman, owner of The Fun Zone Boat Company, stated that he shut down operations on Tuesday because flooding made access to his dock difficult. As of the latest reports, his business had not yet reopened. The NWS notes that critical infrastructure is also at risk, prompting authorities to urge residents to avoid driving through flooded roads or around barricades.

The city is distributing free sandbags to residents in flood-prone areas while supplies last. Pickup locations include the Corporation Yard at 592 Superior Avenue, Marina Park at 1600 W. Balboa Boulevard, and the temporary Fire Station No. 1 near Balboa Pier. Residents are advised to protect vulnerable property and prepare for further rises in water level as the tide cycle continues.

The NWS has issued two separate alerts to manage the changing conditions. A coastal flood warning remains in effect until 1 p.m. on Thursday, October 29. At that time, it transitions to a coastal flood advisory, which anticipates minor flooding through Friday afternoon. Another high tide is forecast for around noon on Friday, with water levels expected to reach approximately 7.25 feet. The advisory is scheduled to expire at 2 p.m. on Friday, October 30.

Forecasters have not specified dates or predicted water levels for the next round of high tides in November. The current alerts focus on the immediate threat through Friday. Officials continue to monitor the situation, emphasizing that elevated water levels could persist even after Thursday’s peak passes. The NWS advises coastal communities to stay prepared for the remainder of the advisory period.