‘King tides’ predicted for Memorial Day weekend

MANATEE – If you notice tides higher than normal, you can blame the universe.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts that just after noon on Friday and Saturday, “king tides,” also known as perigean spring tides, around Manatee and Sarasota counties could reach nearly three feet.

King tides are higher-than-normal high tides. They happen once or twice a year, either when the moon is new or full and closest to Earth, according to NOAA. The lunar phase for Thursday happens to be both a new moon and a super moon, meaning it’s closest and appears the largest of the year.