California Coastal Flooding Sets New Annual Records
Los Angeles County documented 12 flooding days in 2026, surpassing a century-old historical high.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Current Conditions
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In 2026, Los Angeles County experienced 12 coastal flooding days, exceeding the previous 100-year record of nine days set in 1983. Several other California locations also saw historic high counts for flooding events this year.
Why it matters
The recent flooding is driven by a combination of astronomical King Tides, thermal expansion from warmer ocean waters, and a Kelvin wave that raised local water levels by up to 12 inches. These conditions reflect the broader impact of rising sea levels on coastal infrastructure.
Los Angeles County recorded 12 flooding days in 2026, breaking the 1983 record of nine days. Additionally, a Kelvin wave recently elevated coastal water levels by six to 12 inches, while global sea levels have risen two inches over recent decades.
The players
NOAA
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is a federal agency tasked with monitoring oceanic and atmospheric conditions.
The details
Coastal flooding throughout the region is currently caused by natural factors including King Tides and thermal expansion rather than tropical cyclones. Cities such as San Diego, La Jolla, and Santa Barbara hit record flooding counts, while Santa Monica, Port San Luis, and Monterey reached levels placing them in their all-time top 10.
Timeline
1923: The Los Angeles tide gauge was installed.
1983: The previous record of nine flooding days was set.
2026: Los Angeles County recorded 12 flooding days.
Thanksgiving and Christmas 2026: Periods when NOAA projects more intense flooding.
Seasonal Patterns
The 2026 flooding counts mark a departure from the historical benchmark set by the 1983 coastal flooding record. These figures reflect a documented trend of rising sea levels that has contributed to more frequent high-water events across California coastal stations.
Residents in low-lying coastal areas should prepare for heightened flooding risks during the upcoming holiday weeks. Authorities recommend monitoring local tidal warnings and avoiding travel through areas prone to high-water inundation.
The takeaway
Rising water temperatures and astronomical tides are increasingly reshaping the frequency of coastal flooding. Residents living near the shore should remain vigilant during projected periods of high activity through the end of the year.
What happens next
NOAA projects that California coastal regions will experience more intense flooding events during the weeks of Thanksgiving and Christmas in 2026.
Further reading
For more information on the current environmental status, visit the California Current Conditions page.
Live Poll
Is now a good time to adjust your household plan for potential coastal flooding in your area?
