King Tide is a commonly used term describing high tides that are higher than normal. They usually occur during a full or new moon or during specific seasons throughout the year. Charleston’s average high tide range is about 5.5 ft., but during a King Tide event, it can reach 7 ft. or higher.
King Tides can cause flooding in low-lying areas, resulting in road closures on Seabrook Island, as well as the Johns Island and Charleston areas. This is particularly true when a king tide coincides with significant rain and/or wind.
The dates of predicted King Tides for 2026:
- April 18
- May 15-18
- June 14-16
- July 13-14
- August 11-12
- September 29-30
- October 10-11
- October 26-29
- November 24-27
Remember to clear debris blocking the drains near your home before predicted King Tides, and if your home is prone to flooding, you might want to prepare your ground level for flooding.
SCDOT warns: Please use caution in areas that are impacted by flooding. It takes just 12 inches of water to carry away most cars, and just 2 feet of rushing water can carry away SUVs and trucks. Never drive around barricades or on streets where you can’t see the road. Manhole covers may pop up due to the water pressure under the road. Turn around, don’t drown.
The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) is leading the South Carolina King Tides Initiative to document the effect that extreme tide events have on our state’s beaches, coastal waterways, private property, and public infrastructure. For more information on King Tides and the Initiative, click here.
Please note that flooding may also occur if there is a normal high tide along with a large amount of rain and/or wind.
–Tidelines Editors
(Image credit: mycoast.org)