Residents urged to prepare for king tides from tonight

Residents are advised that king tides will be experienced in Cairns this week, from tonight through to Friday 4 August, and peaking on Wednesday 2 August.

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

Motorists are reminded that tidal flooding is saltwater, which can damage cars on contact.

Motorists are urged to 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 adjacent 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.

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

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

• Monday 31 July: 3.23m at 8.48pm
• Tuesday 1 August: 3.35m at 9.30pm
• Wednesday 2 August: 3.36m at 10.12pm
• Thursday 3 August: 3.25m at 10.52pm
• Friday 4 August: 3.04m at 11.33pm

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
• Spence St and the Esplanade intersection, Cairns City
• Parts of Draper St (Hartley St to Kenny Street), Portsmith
• 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.