While King Tide is a rare occurrence here and usually confined to Surfside or Garden City, as a visitor or resident of Myrtle Beach, you might have heard the term and wonder...
📌 What Is a King Tide?
A King Tide is the nickname given to the highest predicted high tides of the year, usually occurring during a full or new moon when the Earth, moon, and sun are aligned. The gravitational pull is strongest then, resulting in tides that are much higher than normal — and lower low tides, too. On the Grand Strand, these tides can send saltwater surging into streets, marshes, and even neighborhoods.
These tides aren't caused by climate change, but they give us a sneak peek into what normal sea levels might look like in decades to come.
🌴 Why It Matters Here
The Grand Strand is known for its low-lying coastal geography, which means King Tides can cause:
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Street flooding in areas like Garden City, Socastee, and Cherry Grove
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Saltwater intrusion into yards, storm drains, and septic tanks
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Increased erosion on beaches and dunes
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Stranded cars and disrupted traffic on oceanfront roads
It can happen even without rain. One minute it's dry, and the next, the sea’s in your driveway.
✅ What To Do When King Tide Hits
1. Know the Dates
Stay ahead by checking tide charts from NOAA or local weather stations. The City of Myrtle Beach often posts King Tide alerts in advance.
2. Avoid Flood-Prone Areas
During King Tide, do not drive through saltwater — even shallow water can rust your undercarriage and destroy electronics.
3. Protect Your Home
If you live in a vulnerable area:
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Use sandbags at doorways and garage openings
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Keep electrical equipment elevated
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Consider installing backflow valves in drains
4. Keep Kids and Pets Away
It might look like fun, but King Tide waters can hide hazards — from displaced wildlife to bacteria-laden runoff.
5. Take Photos (Safely!)
Scientists and environmental groups use citizen photos to track flooding and rising sea levels. Apps like MyCoast South Carolina let you submit King Tide pictures to help researchers monitor change.
🌞 Long-Term Takeaways
King Tides are a natural occurrence, but they’re becoming more noticeable due to rising sea levels and coastal development. By understanding them — and adapting our behavior — we can help protect our homes, beaches, and beloved boardwalks for years to come.
So next time the moon is full and the tide’s creeping in, just remember: it’s not the end of the world — but it is a message from the sea.
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