SEAL BEACH, CA — Seal Beach residents, businesses and property owners were urged to prepare this weekend for an onslaught of king tides.
"The Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday periods are an immediate concern, with elevated tides anticipated November 22-27 and December 22-26, 2026, and additional king tides expected into the new year," The Seal Beach Police Department said in a statement. "Exceptionally high tides can increase the risk of coastal flooding, beach erosion and impacts to low-lying areas, especially when combined with large surf, storms or elevated ocean water levels."
Storms and astronomically driven tides have caused erosion havoc along parts of the Southern California coast in Los Angeles and Orange Counties in recent weeks, with stretches of beach in Malibu, Long Beach, Laguna Beach and San Clemente severely impacted.
"Residents should monitor official National Weather Service forecasts at weather.gov and prepare before hazardous conditions develop," officials said.
Measures undertaken in Seal Beach include the building and reinforcing of sand berms and inspections and maintenance of storm drains, tide valves and pumping systems, according to the department.
"City personnel will continue monitoring coastal and weather conditions and adjust protective measures as warranted," according to the city. "While these efforts can reduce risk, they cannot eliminate the possibility of flooding during extreme conditions."
Information about El Niño and storm preparedness is now included in water bills in Seal Beach and police department volunteers have also delivered preparedness material directly to homes.
In addition, Seal Beach residents can find free sandbags at the following locations, while supplies last:
Residents and business operators should protect entrances and low areas and be sure to place sandbags or temporary flood barriers before flooding begins.
Other tips:
— Do not block storm drains or divert water toward neighbors;
— Inspect your property, clear gutters, drains and downspouts, check roofs and openings for leaks and secure outdoor items;
— Keep vehicles, electric vehicles, golf carts, e-bikes and lithium- ion batteries out of flood-prone areas and do not operate or charge flood- exposed batteries or vehicles until they are checked by a professional.
Residents can get alerts by registering telephone numbers and email addresses at AlertOC.gov.
The city and Seal Beach Police Department and Seal Beach Marine Safety post important information on their official social media accounts.
Official forecasts, coastal advisories and warnings are available from the National Weather Service at weather.gov.
City News Service contributed to this report.
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