While some of us on the island spent the last couple of weeks cleaning up from a Nor’easter that struck us 2 weeks ago, another powerful storm spinning well offshore is responsible for the moderate tidal flooding Monday morning. While we were spared with any rain or snow, tidal flooding and beach erosion has once again become the main factor with these winter storms. The bad news…we’re not done yet!
As the storm offshore, moves away today, another storm system, which will be weaker, will slide through our area late tonight into Tuesday. Snow will spread into the area tonight with some mixing along the coast. Unlike the last storm, any significant snow accumulations will be more localized. In meteorological terms, an “inverted trough” will drape in an east-west over the South Jersey area which will locally enhance snow rates. Either side of the narrow snow band, a light snow/mix will fall but with temperatures in the mid 30s tomorrow, snow will have a tough time accumulating even on roadways. However, where the heavy snow band sets up, snow will accumulate with localized amounts of 6”+ could occur. Right now the Southwest section of Southern NJ has the best chance. As for Ocean City, just a slushy couple of inches are expected with as much as 3”-6” possible as you move further west into Atlantic County.
Now for the bigger impact, moderate flooding is expected again this evening and again Tuesday morning. A Coastal Flood Warning will remain in effect through Tuesday. As the second storm system slides through, winds will turn more easterly and the onshore winds will continue push water levels up to around 7 feet, possibly as high as 7.5 feet Tuesday morning. The new moon phase will also add to the high astronomical tide. If you like your car, you’ll want to stay away from the usual areas on West, Haven, Simpson and Bay Avenues tonight and again Tuesday morning.
The map below shows areas to avoid especially after 8pm tonight and again between 8am and noon on Tuesday.
