Coastal flood watch in effect as strong northeast winds threaten moderate to major tidal flooding
The City of Jacksonville’s Emergency Preparedness Division is closely monitoring a weather system expected to affect Duval County from Saturday, October 24, into early next week, and is in regular contact with the National Weather Service to monitor potential local impacts.
High pressure to our north and low pressure to our southeast will drive strong, persistent northeast winds over the next several days. Combined with high astronomical tides, known as “king tides,” these winds are expected to bring moderate to major tidal flooding and life-threatening surf conditions to our area. While this is not a named storm, the National Weather Service Jacksonville has advised that flooding and wind impacts could be similar to those of a tropical storm.
A Coastal Flood Watch is in effect through Monday, October 26, for the Atlantic Coast, the Intracoastal Waterway, and the St. Johns River Basin. Flooding will be the worst around high tide, beginning Saturday evening, with the highest water levels expected near the Sunday and Monday morning high tides. Along the Atlantic Coast and Intracoastal Waterway, forecasts indicate that water could rise 2.5 to 3.5 feet above normally dry ground. Along the St. Johns River and its tributaries, water may rise 2 to 3 feet in areas that are typically flood prone, including San Marco, Riverside, Northbank into Hogans Creek, and Ken Knight Drive.
At these levels, water may flow over coastal and riverfront roads near high tide. Flooding is also possible into homes and businesses located in low-lying areas. Rough surf is expected at our beaches, which will not only cause dangerous conditions but also beach erosion.
Along with the tidal flooding, northeast winds will strengthen on Saturday, with gusts up to 45 mph possible along the coast beginning Saturday afternoon and continuing through Sunday. These winds could bring down trees and limbs, causing power outages.
Conditions at the beach and on the water will be life-threatening. Expect a high risk of rip currents and high surf. A Gale Watch is in effect for marine waters Saturday through Monday, with seas of 10-16 feet offshore.
How the City of Jacksonville Is Preparing
The Emergency Preparedness Division is coordinating with the National Weather Service, monitoring the forecast, and keeping stakeholders informed and prepared for any impacts. The Duval County Emergency Operations Center will move to partial activation starting Saturday evening. This means staff will be on site to issue warnings and keep partners and residents informed of any escalating weather conditions.
The Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department is positioning specialty swiftwater rescue and emergency road access teams to ensure resources are available and can respond quickly to flood emergencies anywhere in the city.
If citizens encounter downed power lines or trees that could create a safety hazard, please call 904-630-CITY (2489) to report those locations.
JTA is monitoring conditions and will share any service changes at JTAFLA.com and on social media channels.
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office will have additional officers, community service officers, and resources available during this weekend’s expected inclement weather to help keep residents and visitors safe.
This may include traffic detours around flooded streets, if needed. Please avoid driving on flooded roads and remain aware of your surroundings.
If you live or work in a low-lying area prone to tidal flooding, prepare now. Move vulnerable items to higher ground before high tide. Residents are also encouraged to take time before Saturday to secure or bring indoors outdoor items that the wind could carry, including patio furniture and trash cans.
Below are some important safety tips to keep you prepared and JaxReady:
- Sign up for weather alerts: Ensure you have a way to receive severe weather notifications. Visit JaxReady.com/ALERTJAX to sign up for ALERTJAX messages.
- Avoid floodwaters: Never attempt to walk, swim, or drive through flooded areas. Just six inches of moving water can knock you down.
- Turn Around, Don’t Drown: It’s difficult to gauge the depth of water on flooded roads. Just 12 inches of water can sweep a vehicle away.
- Find alternate routes: If you encounter barricades, debris, or standing water, seek another way to your destination.
- Drive carefully: Slow down. Wet roads increase stopping distances.
- Watch for falling trees: Avoid parking or standing under trees during gusty winds. Look for warning signs such as leaning trees, cracked trunks, exposed roots, or soil lifting at the base.
- Stay out of the ocean: Ocean conditions will be life-threatening, with a high risk of rip currents.
- Stay informed: Keep up to date with the latest weather forecasts and updates from official sources such as the National Weather Service and the Emergency Preparedness Division (JaxReady). Being informed will help you make timely and safe decisions for you and your family.
Stay safe, stay informed, and stay JaxReady.