What is a Rising Tide Called?

A rising tide is called a flood current. This term specifically refers to the horizontal movement of water toward the shore as the sea level rises.

Understanding Tidal Currents

Tides are the regular rise and fall of sea levels, primarily caused by the gravitational forces of the Moon and the Sun acting on Earth's oceans. As these water levels change, they create powerful horizontal movements of water known as tidal currents.

Here are the two main types of tidal currents:

• Flood Current: Water Moving In
  When the tide is rising, the water is actively moving toward the land. This movement is precisely what defines a flood current. During this phase, water flows into bays, estuaries, and up rivers, filling these areas as the high tide approaches. For instance, a boater navigating a narrow channel would experience a push inland as a flood current strengthens.

• Ebb Current: Water Moving Out
  Conversely, when the tide is falling, the water moves away from the shore. This receding flow is known as an ebb current. As the tide goes out, water drains from coastal areas, emptying out bays and estuaries until low tide is reached.

Distinguishing Between Tide and Current

It's important to differentiate between the tide itself and the current. The tide refers to the vertical change in water level (how high or low the water is), while the current refers to the horizontal flow of water associated with these vertical changes.

Knowing about flood and ebb currents is crucial for navigation, fishing, and coastal activities, as these water movements can be quite strong and influence safety and efficiency. For more detailed information on tides and currents, you can explore resources like NOAA's National Ocean Service.