The Moon affects tides mainly through gravity. The Moon's gravitational pull, combined with the Earth's rotation and the Sun's influence, contributes to the regular rise and fall of sea levels.
The exact tidal pattern in each city also depends on the coastline, water depth, bays, channels, and weather conditions.
The role of gravity
The Moon's gravity pulls on the ocean's water and helps create changes in sea level. As the Earth rotates, different regions experience stronger and weaker gravitational influence throughout the day.
This movement does not act alone. The Sun also plays an important role, even though it is much farther away, because of its enormous mass.
How the Sun and the Moon work together
When the Sun, the Moon, and the Earth are more closely aligned, the difference between high tide and low tide tends to be greater. This pattern is associated with spring tides.
When the Sun's and the Moon's gravitational influence acts at different angles, the tidal range is usually smaller. This pattern is associated with neap tides.
Check tides by location
The Moon's influence changes throughout the tidal cycle, but you should always check the forecast using the correct location, date, and the latest tide prediction.
Why each location has different tide times
The local coastline changes the way water moves. Bays, islands, channels, water depth, and the shape of the coastline can make the observed tidal variation happen earlier, later, or with greater intensity.
That's why you should always check the forecast for the correct location instead of using a distant city as a reference.