Turnagain Arm's biggest bore tide of the summer is expected Tuesday south of Anchorage, according to tide tables.

The quick-moving bore tide waves provide surfers with a one-time shot to ride a wave in the narrow arm and sightseers with a chance to see a rare tidal phenomenon.

The exact wave height will depend on how strong and which way the wind is blowing, according to the state Department of Natural Resources. The larger-than-average bore tides started Sunday and will last until Thursday.

Smack in the middle of that time frame is the summer's largest bore tide, which is expected to send a wave past Bird Point, on the Seward Highway, at about 5:30 p.m. Tuesday.

The department and the Alaska Railroad urge tide-watchers to stay away from railroad tracks along Turnagain Arm.

Big bore tides

Turnagain Arm will experience a series of extreme low tides this week, with the biggest bore tide of the year expected Tuesday evening

Estimated time of bore tide at Bird Point:

Monday -3.9 feet 4:43 p.m.

Tuesday -4.1 feet 5:31 p.m.

Wednesday -3.8 feet 6:17 p.m.

Thursday -2.8 feet 7:03 p.m.

Source: Alaska Dept. of Natural Resources

Reach Casey Grove at casey.grove@adn.com or 257-4589.