Newport Beach is warning residents that king tides expected Nov. 23–27 could rise 12 inches or more above October's record-breaking 8.4-foot high, increasing the risk of coastal flooding along the Balboa Peninsula and Newport Harbor.

The city issued a notice asking residents and property owners to take immediate precautions. Properties that escaped flooding in October may not be spared this time, the notice said.

The Newport Beach City Council declared a local emergency on Oct. 19 ahead of the October king tides and activated its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to coordinate response across city departments. On Oct. 27, the record-breaking high tide hit 8.4 feet, sending water over seawalls into neighborhoods and businesses on the Balboa Peninsula, according to city alerts.

Seawall work underway

Emergency construction crews are raising seawalls across the peninsula. The city evaluated 70 locations and determined 40 sections needed to go up between 12 and 24 inches, as reported by ABC7. As of Nov. 10, the work was more than halfway complete and on schedule to finish by Nov. 20.

The city received authorization from the California Coastal Commission to issue emergency permits for seawall repairs and extensions, according to the city notice. Streamlined plans and expedited permitting are available. Residents can contact the Community Development Department at 949-644-3200 or visit NewportBeachCA.gov/FloodRecovery for details.

City crews are also reinforcing protective sand berms, inspecting stormwater infrastructure, maintaining tide valves and pumping systems and positioning sandbags and equipment in flood-prone areas, the notice said.

Rain adds urgency

The National Weather Service forecast for Newport Beach calls for showers starting late Thursday night, Nov. 12, with an 80% chance of precipitation. Rain is expected to continue Friday, Nov. 13, and into the weekend, with showers likely through Monday, Nov. 16.

Ocean water levels had been running 18 to 22 inches above predicted astronomical tides before the October king tides, according to the city. El Niño conditions could push levels even higher in the months ahead.

Exceptionally high tides are also expected Dec. 22–26 and again in January.

What residents should do

The city is urging waterfront property owners to inspect seawalls for low sections, cracks or deterioration and make repairs. Other steps the city recommends:

  • Place sandbags or temporary flood barriers along low seawalls, garages and doorways.
  • Move vehicles, electric vehicles, golf carts and e-bikes to higher ground. Saltwater can damage lithium-ion batteries and create a fire risk.
  • Do not drive through flooded streets. Vehicle wakes can push water onto nearby properties.
  • Boaters should limit activity in Newport Harbor during high tides, as boat wakes can overtop seawalls.

Free prefilled sandbags are available at the Corporation Yard at 592 Superior Ave. Empty sandbags are available at Newport Beach fire stations and Lifeguard Headquarters at 70 Newport Pier, while supplies last.

Residents can sign up for Newport Notified emergency alerts at NBPD.org/NewportNotified and visit NewportBeachCA.gov/ElNino for flood preparation resources and upcoming tide dates.