Which statement best defines a flood current?

• A. Outgoing tide current
• B. Slack water current
• C. Standing water current
• D. Incoming tide current

Answer: (D)

A flood current is the current created by the rising tide—the water moving landward as the tide comes in. As the tide climbs, the overall flow in coastal waters shifts toward the shore, producing an incoming current that can affect speed and steering, especially in narrow channels or around shoals. This is opposite of the ebb current, which moves seaward as the tide falls. Slack water is the brief moment when the current is minimal around high or low tide, and standing water isn’t a typical current phase you’d rely on. So the flood current is the incoming tide current.