Bainbridge Island experiences 'King Tides'

Islander Wendy Dymoke took this picture of the high tide meeting the Point White Dock. - Wendy Dymoke photo
Wendy Dymoke photo
Islander Wendy Dymoke took this picture of the high tide meeting the Point White Dock.

December 19, 2012 · 8:40 AM

The Puget Sound experienced its King Tide this week, making Bainbridge Island a little smaller than usual for part of the day.

"King Tides" are biannual high tides that reach further up the shoreline than in any other cycle.

The record high tides were expected Dec. 16-19 this year, and another round of king tides are expected from Jan. 14-17 next year.

According to the Department of Ecology's King Tide map, the January 2013 King Tides could be even higher than the most recent cycle.

The rising water caused a few disruptions on the island, and even more unique views.

In Winslow, the water nearly rose above stone bulkheads, and began to advance on the boardwalks along Parfitt Way.

The boards of the Point White Pier on the south side of the island saw also met the rising tide.

The high waters even disrupted ferry service Monday morning. Walk-on commuters boarded via the car deck since the ferry floated too high to line up with the walkway that normally bridges the terminal and the boat.

High winds also knocked against the ferry and made the boarding difficult.

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