Palm Coast, a city located on the northeast coast of Florida, is known for its beautiful beaches and tidal waterways. Understanding the tide patterns is essential for various activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming. The tidal data for Palm Coast is influenced by the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, which runs parallel to the coast. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the tidal range in Palm Coast is approximately 3.5 feet, with an average high tide of 3.8 feet and an average low tide of 0.3 feet.
Tide Cycles in Palm Coast
The tide cycles in Palm Coast follow a semi-diurnal pattern, with two high tides and two low tides occurring within a 24-hour period. The tidal cycles are influenced by the gravitational forces of the moon and sun, as well as the wind and atmospheric pressure. The tidal range varies throughout the year, with the highest tides typically occurring during the spring and fall equinoxes. The spring tides, which occur during the new moon and full moon phases, have a higher tidal range than the neap tides, which occur during the quarter moon phases.
Tidal Data Sources
There are several sources of tidal data available for Palm Coast, including the NOAA website, which provides detailed tidal predictions and observations for various locations along the coast. The NOAA Tide Predictions website provides hourly tidal data for Palm Coast, including the high and low tide times, as well as the tidal range. Additionally, the US Harbors website provides tidal data and charts for Palm Coast, including information on the tidal currents and water levels.
| Tide Type | Tidal Range (feet) |
|---|---|
| Spring Tide | 4.2 |
| Neap Tide | 2.8 |
| Average Tide | 3.5 |
Key Points
- The tidal range in Palm Coast is approximately 3.5 feet, with an average high tide of 3.8 feet and an average low tide of 0.3 feet.
- The tide cycles in Palm Coast follow a semi-diurnal pattern, with two high tides and two low tides occurring within a 24-hour period.
- The tidal data for Palm Coast can be obtained from various sources, including the NOAA website and the US Harbors website.
- Understanding the tidal patterns and cycles is essential for safe and enjoyable activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming.
- The tidal range varies throughout the year, with the highest tides typically occurring during the spring and fall equinoxes.
Tidal Currents and Water Levels
The tidal currents in Palm Coast are influenced by the tidal range and the shape of the coastline. The tidal currents can be quite strong, particularly during the spring and fall equinoxes, and can pose a hazard to swimmers and boaters. The water levels in Palm Coast are also influenced by the tidal range, as well as the wind and atmospheric pressure. According to the NOAA website, the water level in Palm Coast can vary by as much as 1 foot depending on the tidal cycle and the wind direction.
Impact of Tides on Coastal Activities
The tides in Palm Coast have a significant impact on various coastal activities, including fishing, boating, and swimming. The tidal range and tidal currents can affect the availability of fish and other marine species, as well as the safety of boats and swimmers. Understanding the tidal patterns and cycles is essential for planning and executing these activities safely and effectively. Additionally, the tidal data can be used to predict and prepare for coastal flooding and erosion, which can have significant impacts on coastal communities and ecosystems.
What is the average tidal range in Palm Coast, FL?
+The average tidal range in Palm Coast, FL is approximately 3.5 feet, with an average high tide of 3.8 feet and an average low tide of 0.3 feet.
How often do the tides change in Palm Coast, FL?
+The tides in Palm Coast, FL follow a semi-diurnal pattern, with two high tides and two low tides occurring within a 24-hour period.
Where can I find tidal data for Palm Coast, FL?
+Tidal data for Palm Coast, FL can be found on the NOAA website, as well as on other websites such as US Harbors.
Meta Description: Get the latest tidal information for Palm Coast, FL, including tidal range, tidal currents, and water levels. Understand the impact of tides on coastal activities and plan your trip accordingly. (147 characters)
