High Tides To Hit Laguna Beach This Week, Triggering Flood Advisory

LAGUNA BEACH, CA — Bring out those sandbags, Laguna Beach: a Coastal Flood Advisory has been issued for your town.

The Coastal Flood Advisory was issued Monday morning and is expected to last through Tuesday afternoon as a result of drastically higher tides in Orange County.

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According to the National Weather Service, residents can expect the high tide to peak at 7.2-7.4 feet Monday and Tuesday, which is 1.2 to 1.4 feet above astronomical tide predictions.

Laguna Beach residents should prepare for the flooding of parking lots and local roads, and potential road closures.

"If travel is required, allow extra time as some roads may be closed," the National Weather Service said in a statement."Do not drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth."

Drivers were urged to take extra caution where it comes to ocean water exposure and their vehicle, as salt water can create problems with car engines.

Kandace Redd of AAA told Patch that salt water exposure can cause severe vehicle damage over time because it accelerates corrosion.

"Saltwater can do serious damage to your vehicle. It speeds up corrosion, which can cause rust, damage brakes, and affect electrical systems. Even after the water dries, salt residue can remain and continue causing damage. Repairs can be costly, and some damage can even compromise your safety," Redd said. "If your vehicle's undercarriage has been exposed to saltwater, don't risk driving it. You should have it towed to a qualified mechanic for an inspection to help prevent further damage."

Motorists who have had their cars exposed to floodwater were urged to get their vehicles inspected promptly.

Owners of electric vehicles were urged to take extra care, as salt water can damage electric vehicles and create a slow-forming fire hazard by gradually damaging the battery.

"Saltwater is concerning, especially for electric or hybrid vehicles. It can damage electrical components and the high-voltage battery system," Redd said. "If your EV has been exposed to saltwater, don't start or charge it. Have it checked by a qualified professional as soon as possible."

Huntington Beach firefighters advised the public that damaged lithium ion batteries can overheat, release toxic gases, ignite, or explode hours, days, weeks or months after a storm.

"A battery can remain hazardous even after it dries out," firefighters said in a statement. "Protect batteries from floodwaters before a storm and treat any water-damaged battery as a potential fire risk."