King tides expected from Thursday

Published: 27th January 2026. (Note: information was correct at date of publication but may have since been changed or superseded.)

King tides will be experienced in Cairns from Thursday 27 January and will continue through to Thursday 5 February.

Low-lying areas, roads, and properties can be inundated with saltwater during king tides, potentially damaging vehicles and infrastructure.

The impact of king tides on low lying areas can be exacerbated by heavy rainfall.

King tide levels

King tide levels for Cairns are expected at the following times (other areas may vary):

Thursday 29 January: 3.03m at 7.14am
Friday 30 January: 3.26m at 7.58am
Saturday 31 January: 3.42m at 8.33am
Sunday 1 February: 3.48m at 9.17am
Monday 2 February: 3.44m at 9.52am
Tuesday 3 February: 3.31m at 10.24am
Wednesday 4 February: 3.09m at 10.55am
Thursday 5 February: 2.82m at 11.24am

The latest advice from the Bureau of Meteorology suggests there could be an extra 10cm on predicted tides in Cairns, and an additional 10-20cm on the tides at Palm Cove.

Salt water flooding

Tidal flooding is saltwater, which can damage cars on contact.

Avoid parking cars in low-lying tidal areas and never drive through floodwaters.

Motorists should drive carefully and slowly, not only for the safety of road users and pedestrians, but to lessen the impact of bow waves, which can push water into nearby properties.

Council may close roads which are inundated by tidal flooding to prevent damage to private property.

Motorists are required to adhere to signs advising the road is closed and should find an alternative route until the road is reopened.