Very low tides have returned to the Puget Sound this week, and they will be some of the last chances of the summer to explore the uncovered coasts.
The peak low tide should arrive Tuesday, July 14, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Beachgoers can catch low tides into Wednesday, July 15, before they return to normal levels. This month’s low tides are the third time this summer that tides reached -3.5 feet and over.
Washington State Ferries has also adjusted the sailing schedule around the low tides, which impact the agency’s ability to dock and load boats. Check the WSF tidal cancellations and restrictions page for updated info on the impacted routes, including: Vashon Island, Edmonds/Kingston, Mukilteo/Clinton and Port Townsend/Coupeville.
When is the low tide in Washington?
Here are the predicted low tides for this week in Washington:
- Monday, July 13 (-3.70 feet)
- Tuesday, July 14 (-3.90 feet)
- Wednesday, July 15 (-3.60 feet)
What causes low tides?
Low tides are caused by the earth’s relative position to both the moon and sun. The gravitational force of the moon causes the Earth’s oceans to ebb and flow in the direction of the moon — also known as the “tidal force,” according to NOAA…