King tides disrupt beachgoers, businesses in Hollywood Beach

King tides flooded parts of Hollywood Beach early this week, prompting sandbags and barriers along the boardwalk and disrupting pedestrians and local businesses. Johnny Jackson, who has lived in Hollywood for a decade, said he had never seen king tides before and decided he would drive away if water worsened. About an hour later, water spilled onto Ocean Drive, leaving Lawrence Cutler unable to walk to his destination without rain boots. Flooding also reached George’s Bakery and Bistro, where management said customers without cars could use another entrance, but vehicle access was an issue. Ocean Rescue warned that driving through saltwater can damage engines. Ramo Kline said higher winds and swell are making conditions poor for swimming during king tide season, and urged people to check a QR code at lifeguard stands.