Beaufort Braces for **King Tide** Weekend
This weekend, the beautiful coastal city of Beaufort is set to witness a spectacular astronomical event known as a **king tide**. Local residents, get ready because the tides are about to get a lot higher than usual, and a splash of excitement is coming our way!
What’s a King Tide Anyway?
So, why is this happening? Well, the term **king tide** isn’t just a catchy phrase; it’s a real astronomical phenomenon. A king tide, scientifically referred to as a **perigean spring tide**, occurs when a full moon or new moon coincides with the moon being at its closest point to Earth, known as **perigee**. This exciting combination pulls at the oceans more than usual, causing the water levels to swell up and create those towering tides we’re about to experience.
This combination means that a typical high tide around our lovely Hilton Head Island, which usually ranges between five and eight feet, could reach heights up to nine feet this weekend—thanks to the gravitational forces at play between the moon and the Earth. Just imagine watching those majestic waves rolling in!
What to Expect This Weekend in Beaufort
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the peak water levels are expected early Saturday morning, just in time for your weekend plans! The forecast suggests the highest tides will be making their appearance this Saturday morning, with water levels expected to remain elevated through Monday.
As of Thursday, some areas in downtown Beaufort were already experiencing minor flooding. Residents may have noticed photos popping up on social media, showcasing the large pools of water that have settled in places like the parking lot of Safe Harbor. If you’re in the area, be cautious! Chief Ross Vezin from the Beaufort/Port Royal Fire Department kindly reminded everyone not to drive through flooded roadways. It may look tempting to splash through puddles, but safety first!
A Brief Weather Outlook
Now, let’s talk weather. Thursday afternoon is bringing a chance of showers with mostly cloudy skies and a high near 74 degrees. If you’re hoping for the sun, hold on; the rain is predicted to be light, coming in at less than a tenth of an inch. As we transition into Friday, conditions will clear up nicely with sunny skies and a high in the upper 60s. Perfect for a stroll by the water, just be wary of those tides! Friday night should be nice and cool, dropping to around 49 degrees.
As we head into the weekend, Saturday promises more sunshine with highs around 70 degrees, and Sunday follows suit with temperatures nudging up to 72. So, whether you’re hitting the beach, going for a walk, or just enjoying the great outdoors, make sure to soak up those rays! With cooler nights ahead, it’s time to break out that cozy sweater.
Final Thoughts
As we eagerly anticipate this **king tide** event, it’s a great opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding Beaufort. Just remember while enjoying this cosmic show, knowledge is key—stay informed and safe when it comes to those rising waters. Keep an eye out for updates, and enjoy a wonderful weekend at our beautiful coast!
Make sure to check on your neighbors and help keep everyone safe as we experience these higher tides. Happy King Tide Weekend, Beaufort!
