SANDY POINT/BIRCH BAY, Wash. — Fed by a “King Tide” and strong westerly winds, high waves pounded the west-facing coastal areas at Sandy Point and Birch Bay to the point where miles of roads had to be closed.
Road at the south end of Birch Bay Drive and Sucia Drive at Sandy Point are closed. The fire station at Sandy Point is currently experiencing flooding along with several private properties in the area.
As of 12:30pm today, January 7th, a road closed sign had been positioned on S Beach Way between Sucia Drive and Slater Road at the entrance to 2 miles of Sucia Drive.
Property owners were seen dealing with seawater that was rising in and around their beachfront properties as were some across the road.
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Click for more information2 miles of Birch Bay Drive and nearby roads were closed between the Birch Bay State Park entrance to the south and Alderson Road to the north. The recently constructed berm to the north appeared to be protecting businesses and the road.
Whatcom County Division of Emergency Management Deputy Director John Gargett said today’s King Tide was forecast to be between 10.5 and 11.50 feet, however the storm surge created by the winds atop the already high tides extended them to 12 feet. The combination created waves of 2 to 4 feet, causing significant coastal flooding. It is likely that the roads in the area will be impacted through the afternoon.
The scene at the end of S Beach Way during a tidal surge (January 7, 2022). Video: Whatcom News
The scene on Birch Bay Drive during a tidal surge (January 7, 2022). Video: Whatcom News
The scene on Birch Bay Drive during a tidal surge (January 7, 2022). Video: Whatcom News
Sorry, if you build on or near a river or waterfront, you pay the cost of flooding damage, not the taxpayer.
It was a wild show of nature. Waves spitting over two story houses reaching the middle of the street. Then we all had snow which promptly melted creating lawn lakes. While the tide pounded for a long time, the ground water receded after an hour or so.
Side note forAce, ever hear of flood insurance? We all had to have it to get our houses financed so relax, Ace, no one will be asking you for funds.