Coastal Flooding in the San Francisco Bay Area Due to King Tides and Storms

On January 2, 2026, Marin County experienced significant flooding as a result of king tides and an incoming storm. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a Coastal Flood Warning for the San Francisco Bay shoreline, predicting up to 2.5 feet of inundation in low-lying areas. This flooding was exacerbated by recent rainfall, which had already saturated the ground, leaving drainage systems overwhelmed.

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Flooding was reported in various locations, particularly in Corte Madera and Larkspur, where residents witnessed water inundating garages and streets. The NWS noted that high tides were expected to reach levels not seen since 1998, with predictions of 2.2 feet above normal on Friday and 2.5 feet on Saturday. The king tides, which occur due to the gravitational alignment of the sun and moon, were further intensified by a supermoon.

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Residents in affected areas reported severe flooding, with some businesses, including the Fitness SF gym in Corte Madera, forced to close temporarily. Eyewitness accounts described the situation as unprecedented, with one resident stating, "I’ve never seen it like this." Emergency responders closed roads in anticipation of the high tides, and local officials prepared by clearing storm drains and distributing sandbags to residents.

WJZ - CBS Baltimore

The NWS emphasized the potential for significant coastal flooding, stating, "Numerous roads will be closed. Low lying property including homes, businesses, and some critical infrastructure will be inundated." Marin County officials alerted residents to the risks associated with the storm and advised them to stay informed through local emergency channels.

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Some residents expressed frustration over the lack of preparedness for such flooding events, suggesting that more proactive measures could have been taken to mitigate the impact. One Larkspur resident remarked on the severity of the flooding compared to previous years, indicating a growing concern about the increasing frequency of such events.

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While the NWS provided detailed forecasts for the tides and flooding, there were discrepancies in reports regarding the extent of flooding in specific neighborhoods. Some sources indicated that certain areas experienced nearly three feet of standing water, while others reported less severe conditions.

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As the storm continues through the weekend, further rainfall and high winds are expected, prompting ongoing concerns about additional flooding and potential landslides in Southern California. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and prepared for continued impacts from the king tides and storm conditions.

New York Times

• “com/WlBvoTIgEF — NWS Bay Area ? (@NWSBayArea) January 2, 2026 "Significant coastal flooding expected due to high astronomical tides and storm surge.” — National Weather Service

WJZ - CBS Baltimore

• “I think it’s pretty wild,” — Courtney Mann, Larkspur Resident

KTVU Fox 2

• “This is worse than 10 years ago — this is a little deeper," she said.” — Larkspur Resident

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• “Tomorrow, if we get a lot more rain, I’m afraid [the water] may go over that wall here,” — Anson Tone, Sausalito Business Owner

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