City Prepares for King Tides-Residents Urged to Take Flood Precautions

Published on October 30, 2026

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:

Kathleen Joy, Director of Communications

City of West Palm Beach – Mayor's Office

Phone: (561) 822-1411 (TTY: 800-955-8771)

Email: kjoy@wpb.org

 

West Palm Beach Prepares for King Tides: Residents Urged to Take Flood Precautions

WEST PALM BEACH, FL (October 30, 2026) – The City of West Palm Beach is encouraging residents and businesses to prepare for the potential impacts of a “Super El Niño” weather pattern, which could bring above-average rainfall and increased flooding risks to South Florida this winter. With warmer-than-normal Pacific Ocean temperatures influencing weather conditions, South Florida could experience a wetter-than-usual dry season from November 2026 through March 2027.

 

The City's Public Utilities Department is taking proactive steps to prepare stormwater infrastructure for the possibility of increased rainfall. While the City's drainage system is designed to manage typical storm conditions, periods of prolonged or heavy rainfall, particularly when combined with high tides, could result in localized flooding and slower drainage.

 

Here Is What You Need to Know About Flooding Risks:

  • More Rain Than Usual: Expect an additional 1 to 4 inches of rain per month compared to normal this winter, especially peaking in January 2027.

  • Slower Drainage & Standing Water: Our stormwater system is designed for regular storms, but this winter could test its limits. Please be ready for slower drainage and some standing water on roads and in low-lying areas.

  • High Tides: If heavy storms hit during high tides or seasonal King Tides, our drainage outfalls may be submerged, making it harder for stormwater to flow into the intracoastal. This can lead to street flooding in coastal and downtown areas. Predicted King Tide periods for the remainder of 2026 are currently underway and are expected to continue through November 12, with additional periods anticipated November 22–29 and December 22–27. During the November 24–27 King Tide period, high tides are expected to reach within three inches of Action (Flood) Stage, a level at which minor coastal flooding may begin to occur.

 

Here Is How You Can Help Minimize Neighborhood Flooding:

The City's stormwater grid relies heavily on clear pathways to function. We are asking all customers to take the following steps to protect their neighborhoods:

  • Keep Drains Clear: Avoid blowing lawn clippings, leaves, or debris into streets or storm drains. Blocked drains can lead to unnecessary street flooding.

  • Inspect Private Systems: If you're a commercial property owner or HOA manager, please check and clear your private drainage systems and swales.

  • Report Clogged Inlets: Spot a storm drain blocked by debris? Call the Public Utilities Central Operations Office at (561) 822-2210. The customer service-focused office is available 24/7

 

Report King Tides in your neighborhood by calling (561) 822-2185.

 

The City of West Palm Beach is improving stormwater infrastructure to better protect neighborhoods and actively monitors the system to reduce flooding.

 

For key information on King Tides, visit our Office of Sustainability's 2026 King Tide Season Forecast page. For an interactive tour of the City's Engineering Capital Improvement Projects addressing rising sea levels and other infrastructure needs, please visit the Capital Improvement Project (CIP) Portal.

 

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About The City of West Palm Beach

The City of West Palm Beach is a vibrant and dynamic city on Florida's Atlantic coast. With a rich history, thriving arts and cultural scene, and a commitment to sustainability, the City of West Palm Beach is a great place to live, work, and play. As one of the three largest cities making up the South Florida region and the central city of Palm Beach County, West Palm Beach is a vibrant, growing waterfront city that seamlessly blends the business advantages available in the area with a more refined and relaxed environment for living and working, making it an exceptional destination for both residents and professionals alike. To learn more about the City of West Palm Beach, visit our official website or follow us on our social media: Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly known as Twitter), and LinkedIn.

To contact the City of West Palm Beach, please dial (561) 822-1200 (TTY 800 955-8771). For information about the City of West Palm Beach, please visit: https://www.wpb.org/home

 

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