Friday June 17, 2022
The Chronicle —
Puget Sound saw its lowest tide in more than a decade Wednesday, 4 feet lower than the average daily low tide. Another extraordinarily low tide is expected Thursday.
Ian Miller of the University of Washington and Washington Sea Grant explained to KUOW that a wobble in the moon’s orbit is nearing its peak, making the tides roll in and out more powerfully than usual. That wobble, known as the lunar nodal cycle, is giving us the lowest tides in 13 years.
The lowest tide arrived midday Wednesday, at -4.28 feet. On Thursday, the tide is forecast to be out to -4.11 feet at 12:58 p.m.
Miller said that could give us an extra 6 inches of beach we rarely see.
Over the next couple of days, beach naturalists will be giving tours at state parks throughout the region including Richmond Beach, Carkeek Beach, Golden Gardens, Constellation Park/Richey Viewpoint, Lincoln Beach, Seahurst Beach and Saltwater State Park.