What is High Tide?

High tide is the period between the time when the sea is at its highest level, and the time when the sea is at its lowest level. The two points on the shore where the tide is highest and lowest are called the high and low water marks. The difference between the two points is called the tidal range. When the tide is at its maximum range of water, it is known as high tide.

Understanding the Cycle of the High Tide

High tide occurs twice each day. The tidal cycle is approximately 24 hours and 50 minutes long, meaning that high tides are happening somewhere in the world every 12 hours and 25 minutes. The time that the tidal cycle occurs can vary depending on where you are on the shoreline of a body of water. Generally, high tides are around the same time each day but they can fluctuate slightly. The amount of water coming in and out of the area (called the tidal current) will also contribute to the total height of the water level during high tide.

In the Northern Hemisphere, high tides occur more when the moon is either full or new because the gravitational pull of the moon is stronger. The greater the gravitational pull, the higher the coastal water levels will become. In comparison, the Southern Hemisphere experiences an opposite affect as its highest tides occur during a moon’s first and third quarters.

The Effects of High Tides

High tides can cause coastal flooding, especially in low lying areas. In addition to flooding, very strong tides can lead to powerful waves, which can cause erosion of beach and shorelines. High tides can also lead to increased water levels in rivers and estuaries. This can be a good or bad thing depending on the area. In certain cases, too much water can enter sensitive habitats and cause damage to the local ecosystem.

High tides also play an important role in marine navigation, as many harbours and channels are only accessible at certain times during the day. Therefore, understanding the cycle of high tides is necessary for sailors, recreational boaters, and those working in the maritime industry.

Conclusion

High tide occurs twice each day, approximately 12 hours and 25 minutes apart. It is caused by the gravitational pull of the moon, and can cause a variety of impacts depending on the area. To safely navigate and understand the tide patterns, it is important to stay aware of the current tide cycle.