The highest astronomical tide of the year, also known as a “King Tide,” is expected at Sewells Point in Norfolk on Sunday, November 5. This high tide will affect areas throughout Hampton Roads, and local media organizations want to document the event.

Four Hampton Roads media organizations have launched a citizen-science crowdsourcing project called “Catch the King,” and it’s a great opportunity to involve your children. Here’s what the project entails: On November 5, smartphone-armed residents will use an app to measure this year’s highest astronomical tide when it comes over the banks of waterways across the region. The information gathered will go into a database that will improve scientists’ understanding of the region’s risk from tidal flooding.

How You Can Participate

  • Sign up as a volunteer citizen-scientist.
  • Download the SeaLevelRise app (iOS / Android). 
  • Select the geographical area where you would like to take a measurement.
  • Show up on Nov. 5 to measure the King Tide.

Learn more at kingtide757.com.

This video shows how to use the app.


Get the Kids Involved

In addition to measuring the King Tide levels as a family, this event provides a great opportunity for your children to learn about oceans and marine life. Below are a few ideas to get your started.

1. Visit our playlist in eMediaVA where you your kids can:

  • Play ocean-centered games based on popular television programs like Wild Kratts and Cat in the Hat.
  • Learn about different types of fish through games and coloring sheets.
  • Create a DIY Ocean Mobile.

2. Create a plastic bag jellyfish.

3. Try these three craft ideas to learn how to create a fish from a water bottle or toilet tissue roll, or use a Keurig cup to make an octopus or a jellyfish. 

4. Have older kids? WHRO Education developed this lesson with detailed instructions to use the SeaLevelRise app.


Did You Know?

Coastal Virginia is experiencing the highest rates of sea level rise on the East Coast of the United States, and the Hampton Roads region is the second most vulnerable population center in the U.S. Our WHRO Education team is working on several initiatives to increase the availability of environmental education in local schools. Learn more at whro.org/environment.