King tides will slam into Grays Harbor, Pacific County and up and down the coast again this fall/winter starting Saturday, Dec. 14, and continue pummeling the shores through Tuesday, Jan. 14.

Hazardous beach conditions will come with the king tides, offering both danger and a storm chaser’s dream come true.

Optimal viewing spots include Damon Point in Ocean Shores and the tower viewing at Westport.

“Remember to be safe,” warned the group Sea Grant Washington. “Be extra careful when walking on slippery surfaces and be aware of your surroundings. Be aware of weather conditions and big waves. Always stay a safe distance away from waves. Remember to obey safety signage and guard rails. Never turn your back on the ocean.”

“Coastal flooding due to high tides and storm surge is expected,” Grays Harbor County Emergency Management stated. “This is expected to lead to numerous road closures. Low lying property including homes, businesses, and some critical infrastructure may be inundated. Shoreline erosion or damage may occur. Dangerous swimming and surfing conditions and localized beach erosion. Take the necessary actions to protect flood-prone property.”

“Stay safe out there,” Grays Harbor County Emergency Management stated.

What is a king tide?

In the simplest terms, king tide is colloquially used to describe an extremely high tide. Ordinary tides are caused by the gravitational pull between the Earth and the moon; king tides happen when astronomical events amplify that pull.

Winter king tides happen when the sun is closest to the Earth in its orbit — a position called perihelion. The sun reaches this position in early January each year.

Remaining Westport fall/winter king tides:

Dec. 14 — 11:09 a.m. — +11 feet

Dec. 15 — 11:56 a.m. — +11 feet

Dec. 16 — 12:43 p.m. — +10.8 feet

Jan. 12 — 10:55 a.m. — 10.5 feet

Jan. 13 — 11:46 a.m. — 10.6 feet

Jan. 14 — 12:34 p.m. — 10.4 feet