Twice a year, the water along South Puget Sound rises higher than usual, and it has nothing to do with rain. King tides, the highest predicted tides of the year, are a natural phenomenon that catches plenty of Lacey, WA residents off guard, especially those who assume flood risk is only tied to storms.
What Exactly Is a King Tide?
King tides happen when the sun, moon, and earth align in a way that intensifies the gravitational pull on ocean water. The result is a tide noticeably higher than the typical daily high tide, sometimes high enough to push water into low-lying areas near the shoreline.
Why Does This Matter for Lacey Homeowners?
Lacey’s proximity to the South Puget Sound means some neighborhoods sit close enough to tidal influence that a king tide, especially when combined with heavy rainfall or strong winds, can push water levels higher than residents expect. Johnson Insurance Agency has fielded plenty of questions from Lacey, WA homeowners who didn’t realize tidal flooding was even a consideration for their property.
Does Standard Flood Insurance Cover This?
Generally, yes. Flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program is designed to cover rising water events, including tidal flooding, as long as the event meets the technical definition of a flood. This connects to a distinction we’ve explored before in our post on surface water versus flood damage, since understanding what officially counts as a flood is the first step to knowing whether you’re protected.
What Should You Actually Do About It?
- Check whether your property falls within a designated flood zone near the Sound
- Review your current policy to confirm tidal flooding is treated as a covered flood event
- Keep an eye on seasonal king tide calendars published by NOAA each year
- Talk to your agent before the next high-tide season, not during it
Johnson Insurance Agency in Lacey, WA helps homeowners near the water understand exactly how these seasonal events factor into their flood coverage. Visit Johnson Insurance Agency to talk through your policy before the tides roll in.
