The National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Warning in effect for Ocean City from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. A Wind Advisory and Flash Flood Watch also have been posted.
The latest forecast calls for a coastal storm to bring heavy rain and strong onshore winds starting on Friday evening and continuing through at least Saturday morning. The National Weather Service predicts a level of 6.5 feet on the mean low water (MLW) scale for a high tide at 10:33 a.m. Saturday on the bay side of Ocean City. Visit www.ocnj.us/octides to compare that prediction to recent and historic tide levels.
Street flooding is likely prior to high tide and may last for several hours. Vehicles should be moved from areas that typically experience tidal flooding. The roads closer to the beach including Central and Wesley avenues are typically at higher elevation. Parking will be available at the Trinity United Methodist Church at 20 North Shore Road in Marmora (please read letter from Trinity if you take advantage of this service).
For your safety and the protection of your vehicle and neighboring properties, never attempt to drive through flood waters, and do not drive around barricades. City crews are out clearing storm drains in advance of the storm, but storm preparation can include making sure inlets near your home are clear of debris.
The Wind Advisory predicts sustained winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts as high as 45 mph from late Friday (Oct. 26) through Saturday morning. Please secure loose objects outside your homes, including Halloween decorations, in advance of the storm. The Flash Flood Watch anticipates 2 to 3 inches of rain in a period from 2 a.m. Saturday through Saturday afternoon.
For Police & Fire Department emergencies, call 911. For non-emergencies, call 609-399-9111.
Due to the storm, the 50th Invitational Surf Fishing Tournament in Ocean City has been postponed. The event had been scheduled for Saturday. A new date for the tournament is yet to be determined.
