We want to share an important update regarding the tidal flooding currently affecting our community.
Due to the convergence of seasonal King Tides and an oceanic Kelvin Wave driven by El Niño conditions, water levels along our coastline are substantially higher than normal. As a result, low-lying sections of Saybrook Lane and Units 2, 3, and 4 are experiencing tidal flooding during peak high tide cycles.
Please Avoid Driving Through Standing Water (Saybrook Lane & Park Streets)
If you encounter tidal water along Saybrook Lane or on any interior streets within the park, please avoid driving through it.
Wake Damage to Homes and Spaces: Even driving slowly pushes a wake across streets and park roads, forcing seawater farther into neighbors’ spaces, carports, walkways, and landscaping.
Saltwater Hazard: This is corrosive saltwater that can quickly damage vehicle undercarriages, braking systems, and electrical wiring.
Alternate Routes: Please bypass flooded sections of Saybrook Lane and use dry park streets whenever possible until the tide recedes.
What Management and the City Are Doing
Park management has been in continuous communication with the City to address the water backing up through the storm drain system:
Temporary Measures: The City previously made several attempts to place an inflatable bladder in the storm drain pipe along Saybrook Lane. Unfortunately, due to pressure and flow conditions, the bladder was unsuccessful in preventing the tidal surge.
Permanent Solution Funded: Public Works has officially secured the funding to purchase and install a Tideflex check valve. This specialized valve is designed to seal off the storm water inlet against incoming high tides while still allowing inland runoff to escape.
Next Steps: City Public Works is actively collaborating with engineering teams to finalize specifications and get the valve installed as quickly as possible.
We appreciate everyone’s patience, caution, and consideration for neighbors as we work through these seasonal high tide cycles together.
City Flood & Tide Resources
For local preparedness checklists, harbor tidal maps, and real-time storm updates, visit the official city portal: https://www.huntingtonbeachca.gov/departments/fire/emergency_management/flood_preparedness.php
