King Tides and Water Rationing!?

Last year around this time we discussed why it's great to look at real estate in winter, and during King Tides, so you can accurately assess the water level potentials on a property. This year, with no rain to speak of, the King Tides will still come through, but instead of floods we are looking at drought, prompting new water conservation orders for 2014. Snow surveys are scheduled for January 3rd.

San Francisco has a point of sale water conservation ordinance, which requires low flow toilets and shower heads and such be installed before close of escrow. Many people swap these out after the inspection, but now might be the time to swap them back in.

We have been through this before, and we know the drill. Gardeners, plant more drought tolerant species this year (natives!), and install a grey water system, if you haven't already. Turn off the water when you brush your teeth and any other time you're not using it. Pray for rain and bless the farmers. Spare the air and watch your sparks, and enjoy this fabulous weather (and "Super Moons") while exploring the King Tides. Happy New Year!

Berkeley Garden Coach

More Ginormous Tide Swings

OK, one more chance to check out the flooding potential for neighborhoods you are considering, the last King Tides for 2013 are happening right now.

NWS FB page

King Tide lows are a great time for tidepooling and beach walking too, just be careful not to get trapped by the tide, and please don't go in  after your dog.

Lost Coast Outpost

King Tides

What is all this about King Tides? Well, the simple answer is that a King Tide is the highest tide of the year in a coastal location. Since we are blessed with many coastal locations, if you are photographically inclined, you can join the California King Tide Initiative, which is dedicated to capturing images of King Tides. Just be smart and alert about it, there have been several tragic losses of late. It's always good to know whether the tide is incoming or outgoing before we strand ourselves on a narrow beach. Even with your wits about you, sneaker waves are no joke.

Weather.com

We had King Tides last month and more are upon us, January 9-11. What does this have to do with real estate you might ask? Well, you may want to consider King Tides if you are considering buying property in Tam Valley, for example, or near the Embarcadero or even in the Mission. With sea levels on the rise, King Tides can spell flooding, and offer insights into future conditions.

WCGH

Also it's just cool to know what the ocean and bay are up to, especially if you sail, dive, canoe, fish, surf, swim, or like to hike or play along the seaside. There is no shortage of tide apps for the smart phone user. Three I like are Shralp Tide, Tides Planner, and Tide Graph. Or you can just pick up a simple tide guide at surf and marine shops, spend a little more on the awesome Tidelog  (The Warming Hut carries them) or go here online.