Redondo Beach, WA
CATEGORY 4
WHAT
Flooding is likely but not expected to cause major property damage. Tides are forecast to peak near 20.94 ft in the early morning hours, which risks brief inundation along low-lying coastal areas.
WHEN
Highest concern around the morning high tide (approximately 06:00 AM – 09:00 AM PST).
IMPACTS
• Minor to moderate flooding of low-lying roads, beach parking areas, and coastal walkways.
• Potential short-term disruptions to travel near the shoreline.
• Compared to historical Category 4 events (e.g., 12/18/2024), tide height is very similar (around 20–21 ft).
• Barometric pressure remains relatively high (~1020 hPa), which helps limit the severity of inundation.
• NOAA’s flood likelihood sits at 28.9%, significantly higher than some past Category 3 events; however, lighter winds (generally under 10 mph) help keep conditions below more extreme thresholds.
• Overall, conditions warrant Category 4: flooding is likely, but major property damage is not anticipated.
CATEGORY 4
WHAT
Likely coastal flooding during the morning high tide, driven by a moderately high tide crest near 20.89 ft, combined with relatively lower barometric pressure (around 1011 hPa).
WHEN
Peak flood concern from about 06:30 AM – 09:30 AM PST.
IMPACTS
• Brief closures of vulnerable shoreline roads are possible.
• Flooding in low-lying areas, especially near beaches and boat ramps.
• Tides approach levels similar to other moderate flood events; while not above 21 ft, the reduced barometric pressure may enhance water levels.
• NOAA’s forecast indicates a 24.0% flood likelihood.
• Winds could occasionally gust above 15–20 mph from the S/SSW, adding minor onshore push to tidal waters.
• These factors together favor Category 4 conditions, with probable but not severe flooding.
CATEGORY 3
WHAT
Close to flood conditions, though less likely to cause damage. The highest tide is near 20.76 ft, but significantly higher barometric pressure (~1025 hPa) reduces flood potential.
WHEN
Greatest concern around the morning high tide (about 07:00 AM – 09:30 AM PST).
IMPACTS
• Minor impacts along the immediate shoreline.
• Low-lying roads and walkways could see brief standing water, but widespread flooding is not expected.
• Historically, tide heights around 20.7 ft with high barometric pressure often result in “near-flood” conditions rather than notable spillovers.
• NOAA’s 17.1% forecast likelihood, while not negligible, is lower than on preceding days and supported by stable, higher pressure.
• Winds remain modest (generally 10–15 mph), further diminishing any surge effect.
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.