Cairns Regional Council says a run of morning king tides could affect low-lying parts of the city through Wednesday, 28 October 2026. In its 26 October advisory, the council forecast a 2.83-metre tide at 10:25am on Wednesday. Times and heights may vary.

The council warns that seawater can reach roads, footpaths and property during king tides, and says heavy rain could add to the impact. Areas it identified as susceptible include several Portsmith streets and locations near the Esplanade in Cairns City and Cairns North. The council may close affected roads if needed.

Residents are advised to keep vehicles out of low-lying tidal areas, avoid driving through floodwater and follow any road-closure signs. Council also points people to the Bureau of Meteorology and the Cairns Disaster Dashboard for updated conditions.

Source: Cairns Regional Council, advisory published 26 October 2026. The featured image is an AI-generated editorial illustration of a generic tropical waterfront road, not a photograph of current conditions in Cairns.