King tides expected later this week

Published: 21st April 2026. (Note: information was correct at date of publication but may have since been changed or superseded.)

King tides are expected to affect Cairns next week, from Friday 24 April to Thursday 30 April.

The highest tide of 3m is forecast to occur on Sunday morning (26 April).

The potential impacts of king tides may be intensified by high rainfall, which could worsen flooding during this period.

During king tides, seawater can flow onto roads, footpaths and private property, potentially causing damage to vehicles and infrastructure. Saltwater flooding can damage cars immediately on contact.

Residents and visitors are urged to:

Avoid parking vehicles in known low‑lying or tidal‑affected areas
Never drive through floodwaters
Exercise caution when travelling near the coast and tidal creeks.

Motorists are reminded to drive slowly and carefully to reduce bow waves, which can push water deeper into nearby homes and businesses.

Forecast king tide levels for Cairns (times and heights may vary for other locations):

Friday 24 April: 2.87m at 4.25am
Saturday 25 April: 2.95m at 5.22am
Sunday 26 April: 3m at 6.08am
Monday 27 April: 2.98m at 6.46am
Tuesday 28 April: 2.91m at 7.19am
Wednesday 29 April: 2.8m at 7.45am
Thursday 30 April: 2.79m at 8.50pm

To protect public safety and private property, Council may temporarily close roads affected by tidal flooding. Motorists must obey all road closure signage and find alternative routes until conditions improve.