Awe-Inspiring Images of Oregon King Tide Waves

by | Jan 13, 2020 | Adventures, Featured, News, Oregon Coast, Photos, Storm Watching

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January 11, 2020 brought an incredibly beautiful phenomenon to the Pacific NW coastline: the King Tide. Higher than normal tides typically occur during a new or full moon, or during specific seasons around the country. While amazing to witness, we want to stress the importance of safety while viewing the power of nature at our Oregon coasts.

Some of these waves can wash more than 150 feet (45 meters) up the beach. Most driftwood is the remains of trees that have been washed into the ocean by waves, winds, floods, logging, or other natural means that are carried by ocean currents along the coast, and then washed ashore onto the beach by the action of waves or tides as driftwood. It only takes a few inches of water to lift or roll a log weighing hundreds of pounds. When a powerful ocean wave known as a sneaker wave surges up the beach it is powerful enough to roll or even lift these extremely heavy logs knocking those individuals on them off and pinning them under the log.

Patrick Durkin, a retired member of the US Government stresses this warning: "Beware of large waves that crash close to shore. Duck under them. Never try to ride them. And never turn your back to the sea." Durkin was paralyzed when a large wave in Maryland smashed him into a sandbar.

The Stiles Family / Father and two children were tragically swept out to sea during the King Tide event / via KATU

We want to offer our sincerest condolences to the Stiles Family during this difficult time. Please consider making a contribution to the GoFundMe account set up in their name.

 

Cape Disappointment King Tide / via TJ Simon Photography

Depoe Bay / via Rick Ewol / Facebook

 

Shore Acres State Park / via Jason Coon / JBoy Photography

via Donna DiGiacinto / Facebook

via Donna DiGiacinto / Facebook


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Written By Tyler James

Tyler James, founder of That Oregon Life, is a true Oregon native whose love for his state runs deep. Since the inception of the blog in 2013, his unbridled passion for outdoor adventures and the natural beauty of Oregon has been the cornerstone of his work. As a father to two beautiful children, Tyler is always in pursuit of new experiences to enrich his family’s life. He curates content that not only reflects his adventures but also encourages others to set out and create precious memories in the majestic landscapes of Oregon. Tyler's vision and guidance are integral to his role as publisher and editor, shaping the blog into a source of inspiration for exploring the wonders of Oregon.

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