December “King Tides” expected Sat., Sun. and Mon.

WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. — Annual exceptionally high tides along Whatcom County coastal areas are expected during the mornings of December 6, 7 and 8, 2025. Blustery south-southeasterly winds are expected during these days.

While higher than normal, the December “King Tides” are expected to be lower than has been experienced in years past while about a half a foot higher than November’s.

“King Tides” is a nontechnical term referring to high tides that occur when the moon and sun align, resulting in an increase in the gravitational pull exerted on the Earth’s oceans.

By themselves, high tides are not expected to pose significant property damage risk. But when combined with high winds and/or waves, they can result in coastal flooding. Area communities at risk of such incidents include the Lummi Peninsula, Lummi Island and Sandy Point as well as Birch Bay, Blaine and Point Roberts.

The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management (DEM) has determined potential impacts are likely when either or both of the following occur during a King Tide.

• sustained winds greater than or equal to 20 knots from either the west, southwest, south or southeast
• wave height greater than or equal to 2 feet