The ocean is running higher than usual this week. If you're headed toward the beach in Carlsbad or Encinitas, the late morning is when to pay attention.

The National Weather Service has a Coastal Flood Warning in effect for San Diego County's coastal areas until 1 p.m. Thursday, October 29. Significant flooding is expected around late-morning high tides. This is a warning, not just a heads-up about a little water on the sand.

The warning also covers Orange County's coast. It does not mean every street in Carlsbad or Encinitas will flood.

Why the Late Morning Matters

The National Weather Service's October 27 warning says observed high tides have been running 1.5 to 1.7 feet above predicted levels. High tides will arrive in the late morning each day through Thursday.

That extra water matters most in low-lying coastal spots. Waves can reach farther up the beach than people expect, even where the sand looked fine earlier.

The warning calls for some shoreline erosion. The Weather Service also says numerous roads may close and low-lying homes, businesses and infrastructure could be flooded.

What This Means for Carlsbad and Encinitas

If you normally park near the sand, use a beach access stairway or take a coastal road to work, check conditions before leaving. The warning covers coastal areas, but it doesn't identify a confirmed closure at every beach or street.

A beach parking lot that looks fine on an ordinary morning may be a different story during a high tide. Don't assume a familiar route will stay open.

Carlsbad is already dealing with separate bluff erosion near Las Encinas Creek. Our report on the Carlsbad Boulevard stabilization work explains that project. The coastal flood warning is a broader, temporary weather hazard.

Don't Drive Through Floodwater

The Weather Service's advice is direct: don't drive around barricades or into water when you don't know how deep it is.

Stay off jetties and seawalls. Avoid beaches during high tides, and keep well back from the water. A wave can travel much farther up the beach than the one before it.

If your home or business sits in a low-lying coastal area, check whether water could reach entrances or stored belongings. Move vulnerable items only when it's safe to do so.

For a beach visit, consider another time. The ocean will still be there after Thursday.

When Does the Warning End?

The current warning is scheduled to end Thursday, October 29, at 1 p.m. PDT. That time can change if the National Weather Service updates the alert.

Before driving to the coast, check the latest official coastal hazard message and any city notices about beach access or road restrictions.

Questions About the Coastal Flood Warning

When does the coastal flood warning expire?

The current National Weather Service warning runs until Thursday, October 29, 2026, at 1 p.m. PDT, unless updated.

Does the warning include Carlsbad and Encinitas?

Yes. It covers San Diego County coastal areas, including the coast in both cities.

What time is the highest flood risk?

The National Weather Service identifies late-morning high tides as the main concern through Thursday.

Are all beaches and coastal roads closed?

No blanket closure is listed in the warning. Some roads may close, so check official local updates and obey signs and barricades.

Where can I check the latest warning?

Use the National Weather Service San Diego coastal hazard messages and local city notices for updated conditions.