CORTE MADERA, Calif. – Northern California experienced its most intense flooding in two decades this past Saturday, as a combination of torrential rain and exceptionally high tides inundated the area, leading to road closures and requiring the rescue of several individuals stranded in their vehicles.

The deluge, spanning a 15-mile stretch from Sausalito to San Rafael, was exacerbated by rare “King Tides,” according to Marin County Sheriff’s Sgt. Michael Dobbins. The flooding, which resulted in water levels reaching three to four feet in some areas, forced the temporary closure of numerous roads.

Fortunately, there have been no reported injuries, although the situation prompted emergency services to assist drivers whose cars became marooned in the rising waters. “The conditions created a perfect storm,” Dobbins noted, highlighting the significant challenge posed by the heaviest tides in over 20 years, coupled with the relentless rain.

With the situation precarious, authorities have urged residents in the San Francisco vicinity to remain indoors until the floodwaters subside. Meanwhile, some residents have adapted to the situation by using kayaks to navigate streets, while others have ventured outside, wading through water that reached their knees.

Authorities in the communities near San Francisco asked residents to stay home wherever possible until waters recede. Some residents kayaked along what normally would be city streets. Others waded out in water that passed their knees.

A flood warning was in place for the San Francisco area until 2 p.m. Saturday and an advisory until 2 p.m. Sunday, according to the National Weather Service in San Francisco.

King Tides occur when the sun, moon and Earth are in alignment and the moon is in its closest position to the Earth, creating a stronger gravitational pull.