Minor coastal flooding is possible through the first part of this week as peak monthly high tides combine with higher-than-expected water levels, according to forecasters in Honolulu. Low-lying coastal areas across the state, including Hawaiʻi Island, could see brief impacts during afternoon high tides.
Minor coastal flooding statement in effect
A coastal flooding statement is in effect from noon Aug. 9 through the afternoon of Aug. 11 for southern, southeastern, eastern and northern shorelines of the Big Island. The greatest risk is during daily peak tides through at least Tuesday.
Forecasters say vulnerable low-lying roadways, docks, boat ramps and other shoreline infrastructure could experience isolated minor inundation around high tide.
What to expect and safety tips
Impacts may include flooding of normally dry beaches, minor coastal erosion and saltwater overwash in low-lying areas. The public is urged not to drive through flooded roads.
Property owners along the shoreline or near waterways should consider moving vehicles, electronics and other valuables to higher ground.
Boaters should check vessels to ensure mooring lines do not become overly tight with the tide cycle and watch for overwash near boat ramps at high tide. Recreational watercraft stored on the beach, including canoes, should be secured or relocated.
Outlook through midweek
Tide levels are expected to ease beginning Aug. 12. Even so, minor coastal flooding could persist in a few locations where water levels remain elevated.
Community members can share photos of flooding with the University of Hawaiʻi Sea Grant College’s Hawaiʻi and Pacific Islands King Tides Project at PacificIslandsKingTides.org.
Additional details on the coastal flooding statement are available from forecasters in Honolulu.
For more on recent coastal impacts, see Minor coastal flooding possible during high tides statewide.
