California King Tides Project: Dec 13-15, 2020

The California King Tides Project is asking the public to safely photograph the highest high tides of the year, arriving December 13-15.

Photographing the impact of these tides on beaches, wetlands, roads, harbors, and homes helps California plan for future sea level rise.

Anyone with a smartphone can participate.

Find out what time your nearest king tides arrive and how to contribute your photos to this community science project at california.kingtides.net.

There is an additional, particularly high tide north of Point Conception (southwest Santa Barbara County) due to a combination of astronomical influences such as the relative tilt of the Earth’s rotation with respect to the Sun and seasonal influences on water level such as temperature and wind that differ in Southern California as compared to Northern California over the course of the year.

The most important thing to remember is to be safe! Take extra precautions when you walk on slippery areas or near big waves, and always be conscious of your surroundings and the weather conditions. Don’t turn your back on the ocean! Please be aware that shore birds may be taking refuge in areas above the tide line – don’t flush them out in the process of getting your shot.

Some of the most powerful images are taken in areas that are subject to flooding and erosion, and of places where high water levels can be gauged against familiar landmarks (such as cliffs, rocks, roads, buildings, bridge supports, sea walls, staircases, and piers).