Every winter, tides on the Oregon Coast get higher than other times of the year. They occur when the Moon's orbit is closest to the Earth, the Earth's orbit is closest to the Sun, and the Sun, Moon, and Earth are in alignment. This alignment increases their gravitational pull, which affects the tides. The official term is known as King Tides. There are King Tides today 12/13/2023 through Friday 12/15/2023. During King Tides and severe storms, beach accesses can be closed, and for good reason. In Lincoln City the 15th street access is closed during these next few days.
The water can approach out of nowhere, known as sneaker waves. During these dangerous conditions, large pieces of driftwood and other objects are effortlessly rolled, which can put both individuals and rescue teams in danger. Protect yourself, your family, pets, and even your car by avoiding low-lying coastal areas and obeying beach access closures.
The US Coast Guard warns that sneaker waves are one of the largest weather threats to those on the beach. Typically, there is a period of calm that results in people relaxing their awareness and oftentimes results in beachgoers caught off guard and swept off their feet, sometimes into the ocean.
During these dangerous conditions, large pieces of driftwood and other objects are effortlessly rolled, which can put both individuals and rescue teams in danger. Protect yourself, your family, pets, and even your car by avoiding low-lying coastal areas and obeying beach access closures. When the storm is over, tides recede, and it is safe to stroll the beach again, don’t miss the opportunity. The incredible power of the waves always brings treasures to the sand. You’ll find agates, shells, petrified wood and if you’re really lucky, maybe even an authentic antique glass float. Help keep Oregon’s beaches pristine and pack some garbage out too. (Information provided by Lincoln City Finders Keepers)
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