King tides expected across Nunavut this weekend

Iqaluit search and rescue is warning snowmobilers, hunters and anyone heading out on the land this weekend to be aware of, and prepared for, higher-than-normal tides.

An astronomical alignment will bring king tides to Nunavut this weekend. The highest tides will be on Frobisher Bay, where tides are expected to range from 11.3 metres to 11.8 metres.

A "spring tide" occurs every two weeks when the moon and the sun align on the same side of the Earth, producing tides about 20 per cent higher than normal.

"There's a few times a year when the spring tide coincides with the moon being at its closest to the Earth, and that adds a little bit of extra gravitational pull which creates the king tides," said CBC North meteorologist Ashley Brauweiler.

Jimmy Akavak with Iqaluit search and rescue says higher tides can mean encountering water on frozen lakes, rivers and the ocean.

"It can be dangerous for people getting wet and possibly freezing your feet or hands if you get them wet," said Akavak.

"We just want people to be aware of the water around the edge of the land and lakes or rivers."

Akavak says the floe edge can also be more dangerous during higher tides.

"It tends to break off ice where people don't expect it and people can get caught on the pans of ice if you're not aware."

Akavak says to bring communication equipment and extra clothing, fuel and food.

"If you're planning to go out for one day, plan for three days."

Before heading out this weekend, Akavak recommends learning more about the area or travelling with someone knowledgable.