Redondo Beach, WA
CATEGORY 2
WHAT
No risk of flooding is expected, as tide heights around 18–19 ft coincide with relatively higher barometric pressure levels (~1010–1012 hPa). These conditions are unlikely to produce any coastal flooding.
WHEN
Highest tides occur overnight into early morning (around 02:24) and again mid-afternoon (around 16:00).
IMPACTS
• No anticipated flooding of roads or properties.
• Typical minor tidal fluctuations along the shoreline only.
NOAA's Flood Likelihood for 2025-05-09 is reported as Low (0.0% chance). Historical comparisons (e.g., the Category 3 event on 12/27/2023 with 17.46 ft tide but lower pressure of 1006.1 hPa) suggest that these current conditions (slightly higher pressure, moderate tide) fall below the threshold for flood risk. Hence, Category 2 is appropriate, indicating no substantial flooding threat.
CATEGORY 3
WHAT
Coastal conditions will be close to a flood event and worth monitoring, given a moderately high tide (around 17–18 ft) coinciding with somewhat lower barometric pressures (~996 hPa in late afternoon). Although these factors raise caution, they are still not as severe as past Category 4 events.
WHEN
Main window of interest: early morning and especially afternoon high tide near 16:48.
IMPACTS
• Minor spills or brief shallow inundation in the lowest-lying coastal spots could occur.
• Significant flooding or property damage is unlikely, but monitoring is advised.
NOAA’s Flood Likelihood remains Low (0.0%). However, the barometric pressure around 996 hPa is lower than Day 1, echoing conditions that often merit closer observation. Looking at 01/06/2025 (a Category 3 event with ~20.68 ft tide but higher pressure), Day 2’s tide is slightly lower, yet the pressure is also lower. Overall, these conditions align best with the Category 3 definition.
CATEGORY 4
WHAT
Flooding is likely but not expected to cause major property damage. Tide heights (around 18 ft) will coincide with barometric pressure near 992.96 hPa—the threshold at which historically stronger flood events have materialized in this region.
WHEN
Highest concern near the late afternoon high tide (~17:30).
IMPACTS
• Potential flooding of low-lying roads and shoreline parks, plus minor property impacts near the immediate waterfront.
• Temporary closures of vulnerable coastal roads are possible.
Although the tide is not as high as some past Category 4 or 5 events (which often exceeded 19–21 ft), the barometric pressure is very close to historical low-pressure benchmarks (e.g., 992.8 hPa on 01/07/2022). Compared to NOAA’s stated “Low” flood likelihood, the notably reduced pressure and moderately elevated tide favor designating this as Category 4, indicating that flooding is likely but unlikely to be severe enough for major property damage.
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.