Redondo Beach, WA
CATEGORY 4
WHAT
A moderately high tide near 20.8+ ft is expected, coinciding with a barometric pressure around 1009 hPa. These factors suggest a likelihood of coastal flooding. Although flooding is likely, major property damage appears less certain at this stage.
WHEN
Highest risk of minor flooding around the morning high tide (approximately 06:00 AM to 08:00 AM PST) and again near the afternoon to evening tide (around 04:00 PM PST).
IMPACTS
• Flooding of low-lying coastal areas is possible, especially near beaches and waterfront roads.
• Minor inundation of parklands or parking lots adjacent to the shoreline could occur.
• Potential for some road closures if water pushes inland at peak tide.
• Historical Comparison: The tide height and pressure resemble past Category 4 events (e.g., 12/18/2024). Although the pressure is somewhat lower (1009 hPa vs. ~1016 hPa historically), it is still well above the ~992 hPa threshold typically associated with more severe floods.
• NOAA Likelihood: NOAA forecasts a 25.4% chance of flooding on Dec 6. This further aligns with moderate coastal flood conditions.
• Wind Conditions: Winds are from the SSW around 13–15 mph, not as strong as in some higher-end Category 4 events but sufficient to force tidal water onshore.
CATEGORY 4
WHAT
Another day of higher-than-usual tides, near 20.9 ft, with barometric pressure around 1017 hPa. Flooding remains likely, though widespread major damage is not anticipated.
WHEN
Peak flood risk primarily in the early morning hours (around 07:00 AM to 08:00 AM PST) and late afternoon into early evening around the second high tide.
IMPACTS
• Continued flooding in low-lying areas along the shoreline is possible.
• Minor ponding of water on roads close to the waterfront.
• Possible interruptions to vehicular traffic or short-term road closures in susceptible coastal spots.
• Historical Comparison: Similar high tide levels to earlier Category 4 events, though pressure is a bit higher (~1017 hPa). This supports ongoing moderate flood potential.
• NOAA Likelihood: NOAA indicates ~23.7% flood likelihood, consistent with moderate coastal flooding concerns.
• Wind Effects: Winds are expected to remain from the SSW at moderate speeds (10–18 mph), potentially still favoring onshore flow and elevated water levels.
CATEGORY 3
WHAT
Tide levels remain fairly high at around 20.7+ ft, but barometric pressure is projected to be higher (around 1022 hPa). Flooding risk is close to the threshold and worth monitoring; however, significant impacts are less probable compared to Categories 4 and 5.
WHEN
Highest tide near 08:00 AM PST, with potential minor flooding around that window.
IMPACTS
• Some sidewalks, coastal trails, and park edges could experience minor flooding.
• No major damage to infrastructure is expected unless local conditions (e.g., wind-driven waves) temporarily worsen.
• Minor roadway impacts possible but should remain localized and short-lived.
• Historical Comparison: Similar tide heights to a past Category 3 event on 01/06/2025 (about 20.68 ft), but with a similarly high barometric pressure. Flooding should be moderate and well below severe thresholds.
• NOAA Likelihood: NOAA’s model indicates a 20.0% flood likelihood, somewhat lower than the previous two days.
• Winds: SSW to SW wind speeds around 15 mph, not expected to exacerbate tides significantly given the higher atmospheric pressure.
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.