Record high tides threaten Sausalito houseboat community access and safety

Record high tides caused by a strong El Niño in the Pacific Ocean are affecting the Sausalito houseboat community, CBS News Bay Area reported. Water has flooded parking lots and blocked access to docks, forcing residents to walk through water in rain boots to reach their homes.

A resident who has lived in the community for 32 years said the current tides are higher than ever experienced before, with water levels about a foot and a half above normal high tides. Residents rely on a smartphone app developed by a neighbor to monitor tide conditions specific to their area.

The elevated sea levels and thermal expansion linked to El Niño have brought the tides dangerously close to the community's emergency water system and power lines. If water rises further, it could inundate underground cables connecting to the houseboats, potentially causing power outages.

Houseboats are built to float with adjustable collars around pilings to accommodate tide changes, but there is a limit. If water levels rise too high, some collars could come off, risking the homes floating away. Some residents have taken measures to reinforce their pilings, but not all have done so.

The community is also concerned about storms this winter, which may be intensified by El Niño, potentially worsening flooding and power risks. Residents remain vigilant as they prepare for the upcoming season.