ENVIRONMENT, NEWS

Coastal Flood Advisory Issued for Oregon and South Washington Coast

Minor tidal flooding expected Sunday during peak high tides

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Coastal Flood Advisory for portions of the Oregon and South Washington coastline, warning of minor tidal overflow flooding during Sunday’s high tides.

According to the advisory, the risk period runs from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM PST on Sunday, January 4, when elevated tides may push seawater into low-lying coastal areas.

Affected Areas

The advisory covers:

  • Clatsop County Coast (OR)
  • Tillamook County Coast (OR)
  • South Washington Coast (WA)
  • South Central Oregon Coast, including Coos Bay and nearby estuaries

What to Expect

  • Minor flooding, up to one foot above ground level, is possible in:
    • Low-lying areas near bays and sloughs
    • Estuaries
    • The lower reaches of coastal rivers
  • Flooding may affect parks, parking lots, and coastal roads
  • Only isolated road closures are expected, but conditions can change quickly

Tidal Details

  • Toke Point tide gauge: Forecast tide up to 12.0 feet
  • Tongue Point and Garibaldi gauges: Forecast tides up to 11.4 feet
  • Coos Bay: High tide expected around 12:04 PM PST Sunday

These elevated tides increase the likelihood of seawater overtopping shorelines and flooding normally dry ground.

Safety and Preparedness Guidance

The NWS advises coastal residents and visitors to:

  • Stay alert for rapidly rising water
  • Allow extra travel time if heading near the coast
  • Do not drive through flooded roadways or around barricades
  • Take steps now to protect flood-prone property

A Coastal Flood Advisory means flooding is expected, even if impacts are considered minor. Repeated tidal flooding can still damage infrastructure, vehicles, and ecosystems.

Official Information Sources

For the most current updates, maps, and local forecasts, visit:

Staying informed through official forecasts remains one of the most effective ways to stay safe during coastal flooding events.