The West Coast experienced unprecedented weather patterns at the start of January 2026, marked by record-breaking high tides and temperatures. According to USA Today, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported that 31 tidal gauges across the nation recorded record water levels, particularly along the Pacific Coast. The full moon on January 4 contributed to higher-than-normal tides, exacerbating flooding in low-lying areas of California, which was further intensified by heavy rains. Michael Mann, a climate scientist, attributes these extremes to warming oceans, which increase atmospheric moisture, leading to more intense weather events.