For Hollywood residents along seven miles of shoreline and many canals, the yearly “King Tides” highlight natural coastal cycles and the growing impact of rising sea levels. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has forecasted these unusually high tides, which will peak during the new moon from tomorrow to November 20, and again as the full moon looms from December 2-7, according to the city’s official announcement.
Flooding is a serious concern in these times, especially in low-lying areas where the convergence of seasonal weather patterns and lunar proximity tend to conspire against the land. In some places, the water level could rise by more than two and a half feet during high tide. Despite years of battling these natural occurrences, motorists are once again urged to exercise caution and plan alternate routes around the watery thoroughfares.
The City of Hollywood is taking steps to manage the effects of the tides. Officials have installed flap gates to prevent tidal water from flowing back through storm drains. They’ve also placed auxiliary pumps in high-risk areas to quickly remove floodwater and keep streets clear…