King tide forecast Jan. 5 on local shorelines

It was centuries ago that Geoffrey Chaucer said time and tide wait for no one.

His words still ring true today – most keenly on Jan. 5.

An extreme high tide is expected that day throughout North Puget Sound, according to the state Department of Ecology and the University of Washington-based Washington Sea Grant program.

King tides, the largest tides of the year, are present in winter and take place when the moon and sun are on the same side of the earth and when the moon comes closest to the planet.

The king tide next week could serve as a potential snapshot of future shoreline conditions in the region given the anticipated impact of projected climate change, says Washington Sea Grant Coastal Policy Specialist Bridget Trosin.

“King tides don’t result from climate change,” Trosin notes, “but these high-water events provide a visual glimpse of the future along Puget Sound as a changing climate causes sea levels to rise.”

Climate change, rising sea level, and king tides were among the topics addressed in La Conner during a two-day blue-ribbon seminar in October that dealt with flood-related issues.

Those wishing to view the Jan. 5 king tide are invited to gather at 8 a.m. at the Washington Park Boat Launch in Anacortes. Trosin is scheduled to attend and describe for participants what sea level rise might look like in this area.

Warm refreshments will be served, and those taking part are invited to bring their cameras.