High Tides Could Flood Marin Roads, Prompt Closures

CORTE MADERA, CA — Unusually high tides could cause flooding and temporary road closures in Corte Madera and Larkspur next week, prompting police to urge residents and motorists to prepare for possible travel disruptions.

The Central Marin Police Authority issued the advisory ahead of expected high tides through Friday. Flooding is possible in low-lying areas and roadways that have historically been affected during high-tide events.

According to tide predictions from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, peak tides at the Richmond gauge are expected around midday and early afternoon, ranging from 6.5 to 6.8 feet.

Recent observed water levels have been about a foot higher than forecast, which police attributed to warmer ocean water and windy conditions. The elevated water levels come as California prepares for the possibility of a strong El Niño winter. Patch has reported on California’s El Niño outlook, what previous strong El Niño years could mean for the state’s 2026 winter and Gov. Gavin Newsom’s emergency declaration related to the forecast.

Although the predicted tides would not typically cause significant flooding, the higher water levels could increase the risk.

The highest predicted tides are 6.8 feet on Tuesday and Wednesday. Tuesday’s peak is forecast for 12:33 p.m., while Wednesday’s is expected at 1:14 p.m.

Police urged motorists to avoid flooded roads, obey closure signs and barricades, and allow extra time for travel. Residents should also avoid walking or biking through floodwater and consider using sandbags if their properties are in flood-prone areas.

“Turn Around, Don’t Drown,” the agency advised, warning that even shallow water can cause vehicles to lose traction or stall and may conceal damaged pavement or other hazards.

Marin County officials have also been preparing for potential impacts from El Niño storms and king tides, as Patch reported in its coverage of the county’s preparations and flooding concerns across Marin. A separate report covered preparations for a major Bay Area route closure tied to El Niño concerns.

Residents can sign up for emergency notifications through AlertMarin and local public safety updates through Nixle.

The Central Marin Police Authority said it will continue monitoring conditions and coordinating with municipal and public safety partners as needed.