King Tides Are Back: How to Protect Your Car in Miami (Oct–Nov 2025)
King Tides Are Back: How to Protect Your Car in Miami (Oct–Nov 2025)
Heads up, Miami drivers: King tides—the highest tides of the year—can cause sunny‑day flooding on low‑lying streets. The City of Miami's 2025 schedule shows elevated tide windows on Oct 5–12 (peak), Oct 19–23, and Nov 3–9 (peak), with brief flooding typically lasting about three hours around the peak (roughly 1.5 hours before and after).
What King Tides Can Do to Your Car
- Saltwater accelerates corrosion on brakes, wheel bearings, suspension components and electrical connectors—problems can surface days or weeks later.
- Hidden damage is common after flooding; issues may not be obvious right away. A professional inspection is recommended before extended driving.
On‑Road Rules During King Tides
- Don't drive through floodwater. Depth is hard to judge and hazards are hidden. Turn around—don't drown.
- Don't park in low‑lying areas during the listed windows. If your vehicle contacts floodwater, have it checked and cleaned.
Quick Prep Checklist (Save/Screenshot)
- Plan parking the night before—avoid low‑lying streets along Biscayne Bay and canals; use the City's tide times to plan.
- Inspect wipers & tires (tread ≥ 4/32") to reduce hydroplaning.
- Protect the cabin: keep floor mats dry; remove soaked mats ASAP to limit mold.
- After any water exposure: don't "drive it off." Book a post‑flood inspection first.
What to Do If You Encounter Floodwater
- Turn around—never enter moving or standing water on roads.
- If water is rising and the engine stalls, exit to higher ground when safe—do not attempt to restart a flooded engine.
EV & Hybrid Owners — Special Caution
If an EV or hybrid was submerged or splashed by saltwater, treat the high‑voltage battery as potentially hazardous until inspected. Do not park in a garage or near buildings; move the vehicle away from structures and contact the manufacturer or a qualified shop.
FAQs
How long do king tides last? Usually about three hours around the peak (1.5 hours before and after).
Is it safe to drive after I splashed through a flooded block? Not without an inspection. Water can corrode brakes and electronics; hidden issues may appear later.
For real-time tide information and flood alerts, check the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) tide predictions and the Miami-Dade County Emergency Management for local flood warnings.
