High Tides Flood San Diego Mission Bay Area
Extreme tides inundated streets and properties in Mission Bay on Monday morning.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Severe Weather
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Extreme high tides exceeding eight feet flooded boardwalks, alleys, and neighborhood properties in San Diego’s Mission Bay area on Monday morning. The water entered multiple garages and a construction site as high tides continue to climb.
Why it matters
The flooding is driven by El Niño weather patterns and Kelvin Waves that push warm water toward the coast, raising tide levels. These combined environmental factors are pushing water levels well above typical seasonal averages.
Monday's high tide surpassed eight feet, well above the seven-foot level observed during the full moon overnight. Kelvin Waves are currently contributing to the surge by increasing tide levels by six to 17 inches.
The players
City of San Diego
The local municipal government responsible for managing public infrastructure and responding to emergency flood conditions.
The details
Floodwater surged from the bay into surrounding neighborhoods, forcing the City of San Diego to deploy bulldozers to reinforce sand berms along the coastline. These temporary defenses are being tripled in size to prepare for the next round of elevated water levels.
Timeline
Overnight before Monday: Full moon high tides reached seven feet.
Monday morning: Extreme high tide caused flooding in Mission Bay.
Tuesday morning: Expected 7.1-foot high tide.
Seasonal Patterns
The city's active deployment of heavy machinery to create sand berms follows the standard procedures established by the National Weather Service's coastal flood warning thresholds. This event underscores how El Niño patterns are currently elevating typical high tide cycles beyond historical norms.
Residents in Mission Bay should monitor local updates as the city prepares reinforced sand berms for Tuesday's projected high tide. Those in flood-prone areas should ensure garages and low-lying properties are secured against potential water intrusion.
The takeaway
The intersection of El Niño patterns and periodic tidal surges highlights the increasing vulnerability of coastal properties to rising water levels. Residents should anticipate recurring flooding challenges during high tide events throughout the current weather cycle.
What happens next
City crews are working to triple the size of sand berms in Mission Bay ahead of a projected 7.1-foot high tide expected on Tuesday morning.
Further reading
For more information on local climate impacts, visit the Severe Weather section.
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