King tides to impact Cairns from Saturday

King tides will be experienced in Cairns from Saturday 14 March to Saturday 21 March.

The highest tide (3.17m) will be experienced on Wednesday 18 March.

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

• Saturday 14 March: 2.82m at 7.10am
• Sunday 15 March: 2.94m at 7.32am
• Monday 16 March: 3.05m at 7.55am
• Tuesday 17 March: 3.14m at 8.19am
• Wednesday 18 March: 3.17m at 8.45am
• Thursday 19 March: 3.13m at 9.10am
• Friday 20 March: 3.01m at 9.34am
• Friday 21 March: 2.80m at 10am

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.

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.

Streets that are most likely to be impacted by king tides include:

• Redden St, Portsmith
• Tingira St, Portsmith
• Liberty St, Portsmith
• Walters St, Portsmith
• Trawler Base Rd, Portsmith
• Bramp Cl, Portsmith
• Cook St, Portsmith
• Fearnley St, Portsmith
• Parts of Aumuller St (near Comport St), Portsmith
• Toohey St, Portsmith
• Knight St, Portsmith
• Palmer St, Portsmith
• Hartley St, Portsmith
• Hasell St, Portsmith
• Parts of Draper St (Hartley St to Kenny Street), Portsmith
• Spence St and the Esplanade intersection, Cairns City
• Corner of Lily St and the Esplanade, Cairns North

Residents should also monitor the Bureau of Meteorology website for general information related to tide heights.