Coastal Flood Advisory Will Affect Alexandria Through Wednesday

The National Weather Service warns that tides will reach two feet above normal, causing potential inundation in low-lying areas.

Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Forecasts

A weathered wooden pier overlooks turbulent water under a gray, overcast sky along the Potomac River shoreline. — The National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Advisory for Alexandria, with tides expected to reach two feet above normal through Wednesday evening. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Advisory for Alexandria effective from 4 p.m. Tuesday, September 22, to 8 p.m. Wednesday. Officials warn that the Potomac River shoreline faces an increased risk of flooding due to tides projected to be one and a half to two feet above normal.

Why it matters

Rising water levels along the Potomac River threaten to impact public thoroughfares and low-lying zones, compounding issues from recent heavy rain. With rainfall expected to persist through Wednesday, residents should anticipate potential street-level flooding during high tide cycles.

Forecasters expect up to one and a half feet of inundation above ground level in low-lying coastal areas. Water is projected to approach the curb near the intersection of King Street and Strand Street during peak high tide.

The players

National Weather Service

This federal agency is responsible for providing weather forecasts, warnings, and hazardous weather information for the protection of life and property.

The details

This advisory follows Monday's inland stormwater flooding near Glebe Road and Commonwealth Avenue. The Potomac River shoreline remains particularly vulnerable as persistent rain continues through Wednesday before conditions are expected to improve on Thursday.

Inland flooding occurred in Alexandria on Monday, September 21.
The Coastal Flood Advisory begins Tuesday, September 22, at 4 p.m.
High tide in Alexandria occurs on Tuesday, September 22, at 6:25 p.m.
High tide in Alexandria occurs on Wednesday, September 23, at 6:38 a.m.
The Coastal Flood Advisory ends Wednesday, September 23, at 8 p.m.

Seasonal Patterns

The city currently operates under the National Weather Service's Coastal Flood Advisory thresholds, which define the specific elevation at which minor flooding begins to impact public infrastructure. This advisory follows established operational protocols designed to trigger public safety alerts when tidal elevations reach critical heights.

Residents should avoid driving through flooded streets, particularly in low-lying areas near the Potomac River and the King Street intersection. Monitor local emergency alerts for road closures and follow guidance from city officials until the advisory expires Wednesday evening.

The takeaway

Ongoing rainfall may exacerbate tidal flooding risks throughout the midweek period. Residents should remain alert for shifting conditions near the waterfront until the advisory period concludes.