Public Safety
Newport Beach activates emergency center ahead of king tides
The city is reinforcing flood defenses and moving sand to eroded beaches before exceptionally high tides expected October 26–28.
Newport Beach declared a local emergency and activated its Emergency Operations Center to coordinate preparations for possible flooding in low-lying neighborhoods, waterfront areas and other vulnerable locations.
King-tide window: October 26–28
Sand project: About 100,000 cubic yards
Project area: Beaches between 36th and 62nd streets
Sand replenishment and flood preparations
The City Council approved a contract to move sand from the mouth of the Santa Ana River to eroded West Newport beaches. City crews are also reinforcing berms, checking stormwater infrastructure, preparing pumps and tide valves and staging equipment in flood-prone areas.
The city said recent ocean levels have been running about 18 to 22 inches above predicted astronomical tides. Officials warned that continuing elevated water levels could increase flooding risk along the Balboa Peninsula, Newport Harbor islands and other low-lying waterfront areas.
Free prefilled sandbags are available while supplies last at the Corporation Yard, Marina Park and temporary Fire Station No. 1 near Balboa Pier. Residents can find preparedness updates at the city’s El Niño information page.
Official announcement and original reporting: Read the city notice → · Read the Daily Pilot report →