A Message from Mayor Dean J. Trantalis on King Tides

Published on September 04, 2026

Dear Neighbors:

Fort Lauderdale’s unique character as the "Venice of America" is defined by our stunning coastline and intricate canal networks. While our close relationship with the water is a source of immense pride, it also places us on the frontline of climate change and sea-level rise. As we approach the 2026 king tide season, we are preparing for the annual high tides that temporarily flood our lowest-lying neighborhoods.

This year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts king tides on at least 40 days, making up more than 10% of the year and reflecting how seasonal high-water levels are becoming a regular part of our coastal reality.

Predicted 2026 King Tide Dates

• September 10–13
• September 26 – October 1
• October 7–13
• October 24–31
• November 5–11
• November 22–28
• December 24–25

In addition to these predicted periods, other environmental factors like rainfall, wind strength and direction, and high water tables can raise local tides even higher, meaning flooding can occur outside of official forecast windows. We must work together to ensure our community is ready.

What the City is Doing to Prepare

The City Commission is deeply committed to building a sustainable, resilient Fort Lauderdale. Resiliency has been a Commission Top Priority since 2020, and we are actively funding infrastructure upgrades to mitigate localized flooding.

Here is how the City is taking action to protect your neighborhoods:

• Stormwater Master Plan: Drainage improvements are currently underway in Victoria Park, which is prone to tidal flooding. Bonds have been issued to begin construction in the remaining neighborhoods identified in Phase 1 including Southeast Isles, which has significant tidal impacts. Phase 2 neighborhoods that experience compound flooding from rainfall concurrent with king tides, such as Middle River Terrace, will soon begin design and permitting of drainage systems.
• Watershed Asset Management Plan (WAMP): We are advancing work on mapping, monitoring and maintaining our stormwater and drainage networks. Over the past year, we have been focusing on the Middle River Watershed where we are cleaning stormwater mains that are larger than 30 inches and inspecting the pipes using cameras to assess their condition. This process is crucial for planning future maintenance and repairs.
• Elevating Seawalls: Guided by our Phase 2 Seawall Master Plan, the City is investing $1.5 million annually in the restoration, elevation and replacement of City-owned seawalls along critical transportation corridors. Upcoming seawall construction along Sebastian Street and Seville Street will reduce tidal flooding on the barrier island. A seawall in Victoria Park will be built as part of the ongoing neighborhood-wide stormwater improvements. Upcoming seawall projects along Aurelia Place, Delmar Place and Solar Plaza Drive are in design. The City also requires new seawalls to be built to a minimum top elevation of 5 feet. We are working closely with property owners to address deteriorating private seawalls that may be contributing to localized tidal flooding on roadways.
• Tidal Valves and Infrastructure Maintenance: City crews work year-round to inspect, clean and maintain 215 tidal valves across our network. Inspected quarterly, these valves allow rainwater to drain but prevent tidal saltwater from backing up onto neighborhood streets. Crews are also clearing storm drains and catch basins, monitoring pump stations and raising electrical panel boxes for sanitary sewer pump stations to keep critical utilities running during high-water events.
• Response and Hardening Initiatives: To respond to active flooding, the City is investing in new high-water clearance vehicles for timely safety assessments and is prepared to use contract vacuum trucks to clear flooded streets. On our coastline, crews are stabilizing beach dunes by burying seaweed to minimize wave impact.
• Policy and Regional Coordination: Fort Lauderdale continues to implement higher regulatory development standards through our upgraded Comprehensive Plan and Climate Change Element. We are actively participating in the Southeast Florida Regional Climate Change Compact to coordinate resilience efforts regionally, and we continue to support the Community Rating System, which secures flood insurance premium discounts for our neighbors.

How Neighbors Can Prepare

For those living near the water or in low-lying areas, taking proactive steps is essential:

• Inspect and, if Needed, Elevate Your Seawall: Ensure your seawall is well-maintained and, if it is being overtopped by the tide, elevated to the City's current 5-foot standard.
• Protect Your Property: Consider flood barriers, such as sandbags, which are available to Fort Lauderdale residents at local parks (including George English Park, Holiday Park, Mills Pond Park, Floyd Hull/Morton Center and Riverland Park) on the third Saturday and Sunday of each month through November. You can also install check valves on private drainage systems and relocate electrical panel boxes, water heaters and appliances to elevated locations.
• Verify Your Insurance: Homeowner and renter insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage. We strongly encourage neighbors, especially those in Special Flood Hazard Areas, to review and secure flood insurance. Start today by requesting a Flood Risk Information Letter from our floodplain manager to better understand your property's flood zone.
• Stay Safe During Floods: Be aware of the high tides each day and plan your travel accordingly. Never walk or drive through flooded streets. Saltwater causes severe, corrosive damage to vehicles and driving through flooded roads can push water into adjacent private properties. If a street floods, please ensure storm drains are clear of debris and move your waste collection carts to a safe location after they are emptied to prevent blockages.
• Stay Informed:Receive timely alerts on City initiatives and emergency notifications, ensuring you're always in the know and empowered to participate in shaping the future of our city. Sign up to receive emergency notifications at fortlauderdale.gov/alertftl.

Building a resilient Fort Lauderdale requires a collaborative partnership between the City and our neighbors. By continuing to invest in sustainable infrastructure and working together, we are securing our community for generations to come.

To report impassable roadways, unusual flooding or clogged storm drains, please contact our Customer Support Center at 954-828-8000, visit fortlauderdale.gov/fixitftl or use the FixIt FTL mobile app.

Dean J. Trantalis
Mayor