By Sir Milo Loftin, County of San Diego Communications Office
Oct. 27, 2026 | 11:49 AM
Reading Time: 2 minutes
The National Weather Service issued a Coastal Flood Advisory for San Diego County’s coastal areas. The advisory, issued on Oct. 25, remains in effect through Thursday as some neighborhoods have already experienced flooding, with potentially record-breaking high tides expected this week.
Coastal residents should stay alert for rising water and take appropriate action to protect life and property.
More coastal flooding is expected and may impact roads, homes, businesses and critical infrastructure. Shoreline erosion is also likely during morning hours.
High Tides to Peak in the Morning
High tides will occur every morning through Thursday, with peak tides possibly 1 to 1.7 feet higher than predicted. Residents should avoid the beach during high tide and stay aware of rising water levels.
With waves reaching farther up the beach, stay well back from the ocean and avoid rocks, jetties and cliffs.
The City of San Diego asks that the public protect flood-control berms by staying off of them and not dragging equipment across them. Berms are large, raised ridges of sand that run parallel to the shoreline.
Protect Flood-Prone Property
If you live or work in a coastal or low-lying area, use sandbags or other barriers to prevent flooding.
To find sandbag locations near you, select your city on the El Niño 2026 Resources section of Alert San Diego.
Not sure how to use sandbags? Watch our Sandbags 101 video for tips on how to fill and stack them to keep water away from your property.
Turn Around Don’t Drown
Be aware of your surroundings and follow any posted signage or closures.
At the beach, never turn your back to the ocean. Tides can rise quickly and with more force than they appear.
Never cross a flooded intersection, beach access point or pathway.
When driving, remember: Turn around, don’t drown. Floodwater can be deeper than it looks and conceal hazards that could strand your vehicle.
Preparedness and El Niño Resources
El Niño conditions are expected to bring increased rainfall, more frequent storms and a heightened risk of flooding to San Diego County throughout fall and winter.
The County is monitoring weather patterns closely and coordinating with regional partners to keep communities informed and prepared.
Visit the El Niño 2026 Information Hub for steps you can take now to prepare, expected local impacts, available support resources and County tools to help you stay safe.
Sir Milo Loftin is a communications specialist with the County of San Diego Communications Office.
