Living on Martha’s Vineyard means we’re surrounded by the beauty of the ocean, but it also means staying aware of the risks that come with coastal living—particularly flooding and storm tides. Flood safety and storm tide awareness are crucial for islanders, especially as weather patterns shift and extreme storms become more frequent.
Dukes County’s GIS flood risk map and the Storm Tide Pathways tool give us a clear view of areas vulnerable to flooding. These tools help visualize how high tides, storm surges, and sea-level rise can impact different parts of the island. Understanding these risks empowers residents to take proactive measures, like planning safe evacuation routes and protecting their homes from flood damage.
During severe weather, the NOAA water gauge at Edgartown Harbor is an invaluable resource to track rising water levels. It helps islanders monitor storm tides in real-time and make informed decisions about safety. As we head into flood awareness season, it’s important to stay updated through resources like NOAA’s Flood Awareness Week, which offers tips for preparedness and flood response.
By staying informed and prepared, we can help protect our island and its community from the dangers of storm tides and flooding. Be sure to check local resources and keep your safety plan in place!
Additional Resources:
Storm Tide Pathways: Resources & Town Maps
Edgartown Harbor near Chappaquiddick Point, NOAA National Water Prediction Service
NOAA Flood Safety Awareness Week
MyCoast: Massachusetts a portal for the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management
