Prince Rupert, British Columbia, is preparing for an exceptionally high tide of 7.03 metres expected on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at 12:57 PM PST. That predicted peak — an astronomical high from Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) tide tables — is nearly a full metre above the area’s mean higher high water (6.17 m) and coincides with the Full Moon on Feb. 1. Local officials are monitoring the event closely because Environment Canada forecasts a low‑pressure system with strong winds that could amplify the water level.
When high winds and low pressure occur at the same time as an astronomical high tide, they can generate a storm surge that pushes additional water toward shore. DFO tidal predictions for Prince Rupert (station 09354) put the base astronomical high at about 7.03 m.
The Prince Rupert Port Authority (PRPA) is watching live harbour sensors and forecast guidance in real time — PRPA’s Live Harbour Data dashboard and its MarineLabs sensor network provide wind, wave and tide readings — and is advising waterfront users to secure vessels and equipment. PRPA and local emergency management recommend that large ship operators and small‑boat owners double‑check mooring lines and move loose gear well above the splash zone to reduce the risk of damage if water levels exceed predictions.
The City of Prince Rupert notes that much of the community sits on higher ground, but its 2019 tsunami and flood risk assessment and recent briefings underscore that specific waterfront assets remain vulnerable during combined tide‑and‑surge events. City and regional emergency services, together with the Port Authority, are monitoring conditions and could close low‑lying coastal roads if flooding begins to occur.
