Boston’s Astonishing ‘Wicked High’ Tide: A Stark Preview of Future Rising Seas, Say Experts

Boston’s Unprecedented ‘Wicked High’ Tide: A Glimpse into Our Future

Recent high tides in Boston’s waterfront reached extraordinary levels, peaking at around 12 feet high relative to low tide. This phenomenon, although rare now, could become more frequent due to climate change. Researchers are concerned that such flooding might be a common occurrence in the coming decades.

At Long Wharf, the water easily surpassed the sea wall, drawing the attention of tourists and even encouraging some dogs to take a brief swim. Meanwhile, traffic in Dorchester slowed as vehicles cautiously navigated through partially flooded streets on Morrissey Boulevard.

Experts from the Stone Living Lab suggest that this event offers a snapshot of Boston’s future. “This is a preview of what Boston could regularly experience,” said Rebecca Shoer, a senior program manager, addressing curious onlookers.

The high tide, while not record-breaking, was significantly higher than usual, prompting minor flooding. Patrons at the Chart House restaurant enjoyed their meals despite water sloshing around their feet, while others chose higher ground to avoid getting wet.

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Understanding the ‘Wicked High’ Tide Phenomenon

Local scientists dub these events “wicked high” tides, differentiating them from the commonly known “king” tides. These occur when the moon is both full or new and closest to Earth, combined with additional factors like remnants of a tropical storm pushing the water higher.

This week’s tides offer a stark preview of the future, where such sea levels could become the norm due to climate change. Predictions indicate that Boston could see a foot of sea level rise by 2050, with further increases in the decades following.

Several factors contribute to these elevated water levels:

• Perigean spring tides that occur about eight times a year
• High water temperatures expanding water molecules
• Seasonal trends and wind patterns

These elements combined can lead to significant tidal variations, particularly noticeable in regions like Boston with a long tidal range.

The Rising Tide’s Impact on Boston

Boston’s average sea level is now more than a foot higher than it was in the 1920s. This rise has been recorded by a tidal gauge in Fort Point Channel, marking this past decade as the city’s highest period of sea level in the modern record.

New England’s sea level rise tends to exceed the global average, partly because the coastal land is gradually sinking due to ancient glacier effects. Predictions suggest that even with conservative estimates, Boston could see about 2 feet of sea level rise in the next 50 years.

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The pace of this rise is alarming, with sea levels increasing at twice the rate between 2001 and 2019 compared to the last century. This trend is expected to continue, further amplifying flood risks as a 19-year natural lunar cycle begins toward the end of this decade.

Another significant perigean spring tide is anticipated in mid-October, likely bringing water levels back to 12 feet, according to NOAA forecasts. This ongoing pattern underscores the urgent need for climate preparedness and adaptation strategies.

Future Projections and Concerns

The long-term trend of sea level rise is primarily driven by climate change. Melting glaciers and warming ocean temperatures are expanding water volumes, contributing to higher sea levels. This trend is expected to continue, posing significant challenges for coastal cities like Boston.

Beyond the middle of the century, sea level rise projections vary depending on greenhouse gas emissions. Even the most conservative estimates point to substantial increases, highlighting the urgent need for climate action to mitigate these impacts.

Sea level is not a static measure; it fluctuates based on factors like water temperature, wind strength, and lunar cycles. However, the overarching trend of rising sea levels due to climate change is clear and concerning.

In the coming years, Boston’s coastal areas will face increased flood risks, necessitating robust adaptation and preparedness measures. The city’s experience with “wicked high” tides serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges ahead.

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