Redondo Beach, WA
CATEGORY 4
WHAT
Moderate coastal flooding is likely around the morning high tide. While some localized impacts are possible, widespread major property damage is not expected under current conditions.
WHEN
Greatest risk from approximately 5:00 AM PST through 9:00 AM PST around the peak high tide.
IMPACTS
• Minor inundation in low-lying areas and near shorelines.
• Possible flooding of docks, waterfront walkways, and some roadway ponding.
• No significant structural damage anticipated, but vulnerable properties along immediate shorelines may experience minor effects.
• Tide heights near 20.8+ ft coincide with a barometric pressure around 1009 hPa, which is lower than on some historical mid-range (Category 3) events.
• NOAA’s flood likelihood for 12/06 is 25.4%, indicating a moderate chance of minor to moderate flooding.
• Winds are forecast around 12-19 mph from the SW, which can further push water onshore.
• Historically, tides around 20.5 ft with pressures in this range (e.g., 12/18/2024) were classified as Category 4 events, making this risk level appropriate here.
CATEGORY 3
WHAT
Close to a flood event but primarily minor tidal overflow is expected. No major damage is anticipated; conditions bear watching in areas prone to localized flooding.
WHEN
Potential highest risk around the morning high tide from about 6:00 AM PST to 10:00 AM PST.
IMPACTS
• Minor flooding of low-lying shorefront areas and small sections of coastal roads.
• Generally no disruptions to well-protected infrastructure.
• Tide heights again approach 20.8 ft, but barometric pressures are notably higher (around 1017-1022 hPa), reducing severe flood potential.
• Winds are expected to be lighter (generally 5-10 mph) from SSE/SW, lessening wave-driven impacts compared to stronger onshore winds.
• NOAA forecasts a 23.7% flood likelihood for 12/07, which remains considerable but below Day 1’s level.
• Compared with similar historical mid-range tide events, this setup aligns best with Category 3 conditions.
CATEGORY 3
WHAT
Tides will be high in the morning, creating conditions close to a flood event. Minimal damage is expected, but careful monitoring is advised.
WHEN
Main period of concern is around the morning high tide, roughly 6:30 AM PST to 10:00 AM PST.
IMPACTS
• Minor flooding in areas with known drainage problems or very low coastal spots.
• Limited impact to property; small-scale standing water in parking areas or minor road ponding possible.
• Barometric pressure remains elevated (about 1022 hPa), which historically lowers the potential for severe tidal flooding.
• Though tide heights again reach or exceed 20.7 ft, the higher pressure and only moderate winds reduce the overall risk.
• NOAA’s 20.0% likelihood rating for 12/08 suggests persistent though slightly lower flood chances compared to the prior two days.
• This forecast aligns well with past Category 3 events (e.g., 01/06/2025) having similar tide and pressure ranges.
You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.
Categories 1-2: No risk of flooding.
Category 3: Close to a flood event and worth monitoring.
Category 4: Flooding is likely however, it is uncertain if this will cause major property damage.
Category 5: Likely to flood and cause property damage.
Categories 6-7: Extremely high risk of flooding and property damage.