High Tides at the Homer Spit: The New Normal?

Homer Spit during this weekend's storm. You can see the waves spilling on to the road. PC: Ted Cocos

Over the past few days, the Homer Spit has faced unusually high tides, leaving visible damage and raising important questions for our coastal community. On November 16, the tides reached a high of 23.18 feet and dropped to a dramatic low of -5.25 feet. These extremes have caused erosion, damaged roads, and left parts of the Spit looking worse for wear. For many of us, it’s a wake-up call about what’s happening along our shores.

What Does This Mean for Us?

As a community so connected to the coast, these high tides remind us of how vulnerable we are to changes in our environment. The damage is more than a temporary inconvenience—it’s a glimpse of the challenges we could face more often in the future. Erosion threatens roads, businesses, and homes, while the costs of repairs and the potential impact on tourism weigh heavily on our local economy. On top of that, sediment from erosion can harm the marine ecosystems we rely on.

Damage to one of the business on the Homer Spit. PC Ralph Crane, Homer Communications

Is This the New Normal?

It’s hard to ignore the bigger picture. Rising sea levels and shifting weather patterns are likely playing a role in what we’re seeing. Events like these could become more common, and it’s something we need to prepare for as a coastal community.

What Can We Do About It?

While these tides are beyond our control, there are steps we can take to protect our community and coast:

• Stay Informed
  Keep an eye on local tide forecasts and weather updates so we can be ready for future events.
• Plan for the Future
  Support community planning efforts to strengthen infrastructure and make our coastlines more resilient.
• Protect Natural Defenses
  Wetlands and dunes act as natural buffers against erosion. Helping to protect and restore them can make a real difference.
• Advocate for Change
  Work with local leaders to promote sustainable policies and climate action. The more we can address the root causes, the better off we’ll be in the long run.

The recent tides remind us how connected we are to the land and water around us. This is our home, and it’s up to all of us to protect it. By working together, we can find ways to adapt, plan, and care for the coastlines that mean so much to us.

The Tackle Shack during the storm. PC Ralph Crane, Homer Communications

Note: For detailed tide information and forecasts, please refer to local tide charts and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) resources