King tides to impact Cairns next week

Residents are advised that king tides will be experienced in Cairns from next Monday 19 February through to Monday 26 February, and peaking on Thursday 22 February.

Cairns Regional Council would like to remind motorists that 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.

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 19 February: 2.96m at 7.14amTuesday 20 February: 3.05m at 7.48amWednesday 21 February: 3.09m at 8.19amThursday 22 February: 3.09m at 8.47amFriday 23 February: 3.05m at 9.12amSaturday 24 February: 2.99m at 9.32amSunday 25 February: 2.9m at 9.50amMonday 26 February: 2.8m at 10.06am

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

Redden St, PortsmithTingira St, PortsmithLiberty St, PortsmithWalters St, PortsmithTrawler Base Rd, PortsmithBramp Cl, PortsmithCook St, PortsmithFearnley St, PortsmithParts of Aumuller St (near Comport St), PortsmithSpence St and the Esplanade intersection, Cairns CityParts of Draper St (Hartley St to Kenny Street), PortsmithCorner of Lily St and the Esplanade, Cairns North

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