Full Notification

Corte Madera and Larkspur Residents Encouraged to Prepare for Possible Flooding and Road Closures

The Central Marin Police Authority is advising residents, businesses, and motorists in the Town of Corte Madera and the City of Larkspur of unusually high tides expected between Monday, October 26, and Friday, October 30, 2026. These conditions may result in localized flooding, particularly in low-lying areas and roadways that have historically experienced flooding during high tide events.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), high tides are forecast to occur around midday and early afternoon throughout the week. Predicted peak tide times at the Richmond tide gauge are as follows:

• Monday, October 26: 11:57 a.m. (6.6 feet)
• Tuesday, October 27: 12:33 p.m. (6.8 feet)
• Wednesday, October 28: 1:14 p.m. (6.8 feet)
• Thursday, October 29: 2:02 p.m. (6.7 feet)
• Friday, October 30: 2:58 p.m. (6.5 feet)

Although these predicted tide levels would not typically cause significant flooding, recent observed water levels have been approximately one foot higher than forecast due to warmer ocean water and windy conditions. As a result, residents should be prepared for possible flooding, roadway hazards, and temporary road closures.

Flooding and Roadway Safety Tips

The Central Marin Police Authority encourages everyone to take the following precautions:

• Never drive through flooded roadways. Even shallow water can cause a vehicle to lose traction, stall, or become stranded. Water may also conceal damaged pavement, debris, or other hazards.
• Turn Around, Don’t Drown. If you encounter standing water on a roadway, turn around and find an alternate route. Never attempt to determine the depth of floodwater by driving through it.
• Obey all road closure signs and barricades. Road closures are established for public safety. Never drive around barricades or attempt to cross a closed roadway.
• Allow extra travel time. Be prepared for unexpected traffic delays, detours, and temporary road closures, particularly during peak high tide periods.
• Avoid walking or biking through floodwater. Floodwater can conceal hazards and may contain contaminants.
• Prepare your property. Clear leaves and debris from gutters, drains, and driveways. Residents and businesses in flood-prone areas should consider using sandbags and taking other appropriate protective measures.
• Stay informed. Monitor local weather conditions, roadway advisories, and emergency notifications throughout the week.

Sign Up for Emergency Alerts

The Central Marin Police Authority strongly encourages all residents and businesses to register for emergency notification services.

AlertMarin: Marin County’s official emergency notification system provides critical information and instructions during emergencies, including situations that may require immediate protective action.
Sign up at: https://www.alertmarin.org

Nixle: Provides local public safety advisories, community notifications, traffic alerts, and other important updates from participating local public safety agencies.
Sign up at: https://www.nixle.com

Registering for both services can help ensure you receive timely information about emergencies, changing conditions, and potential impacts to your community.

Our Commitment to Community Safety

The Central Marin Police Authority will continue to monitor conditions and coordinate with our public safety and municipal partners in Corte Madera and Larkspur as needed.

We encourage everyone to remain vigilant, exercise caution when traveling, and take proactive steps to protect themselves, their families, and their property.

Remember: No destination is worth risking your safety by driving through floodwater. When in doubt, turn around.