Redondo Beach, WA
CATEGORY 4
WHAT... The flood risk assessment for December 26, 2023, indicates a potential Category 4 flood event, considering the historical data and current conditions. The high tide level was recorded at approximately 20.412 feet at 05:48, which is near the threshold of the Category 4 event on 11/15/2021 and slightly lower than the Category 5 event on 12/27/2022. Importantly, the mean barometric pressure MSL at this time was considerably higher at 1032.0321044921875 hPa, which is above the threshold levels known for previous flood events. This higher pressure suggests a lower risk of flooding despite the high tide.
WHEN... High tide and corresponding barometric pressure indicate that the risk for flooding is present but mitigated by higher atmospheric pressure. The likelihood of flooding may not be as severe as in previous events with similar tide levels due to this pressure difference.
The NOAA analysis indicates a relatively low likelihood of flood events, which aligns with the observed high barometric pressure during high tide times. While there is potential for water levels to rise due to the high tide, the current atmospheric conditions are more favorable and less conducive to flooding compared to past Category 4 or 5 events. It's essential to continue monitoring weather conditions, especially wind direction and speed, as these can contribute to storm surge and localized flooding risks.
CATEGORY 3
WHAT... Comparative analysis for December 27, 2023, shows a decreased flood risk with a Category 3 rating due to a slightly lower high tide peak at around 20.566 feet compared to Day 1 and an associated mean barometric pressure MSL of 1025.5740966796875 hPa during the morning high tide event. This pressure is still above critical thresholds known to contribute to flooding in Redondo Beach.
WHEN... The flood risk on this day appears to be moderated by both a lower tide level and adequate atmospheric pressure compared to historical flood events. Despite this, vigilance is advised due to the NOAA's indication of a slightly elevated likelihood of flooding on this date.
While NOAA CO-OPS highlights a high likelihood of flooding for this date, the actual parameters seem more favorable when solely considering the provided weather and tidal data in comparison with historical events. It's important to consider wind factors which are not fully detailed here but can significantly influence coastal flooding during high tides.
CATEGORY 3
WHAT... On December 28, 2023, conditions appear similar to Day 2 with a high tide level approximately reaching around 20.518 feet and a consistent mean barometric pressure MSL of about 1027.554931640625 hPa, which remains above critical flood-inducing thresholds observed historically.
WHEN... Given these observations, the projection of flood risk remains moderate for Day 3 as well. Both tidal conditions and barometric pressure do not reach the alarming levels seen in past significant flood events like those categorized as Category 5.
The NOAA CO-OPS data presents a consistent pattern of elevated apparent flood likelihood for Redondo Beach; however, analysis of specific weather data points such as barometric pressure during peak tides suggests that actual conditions may not be conducive to severe flooding unless further exacerbated by additional factors like heavy rainfall or strong winds from critical directions.
Residents and authorities in Redondo Beach should monitor later forecasts and remain alert for possible Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should any signs of flooding develop or if weather conditions change significantly. Consultation with local authorities or experts is advised for final decision-making in flood-related situations given that these assessments are based on limited data points and do not account for all potential influencing factors such as ground saturation or hydrodynamic models.