The National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Watch in effect for Ocean City, Strathmere and nearby coastal areas from 6 a.m. Monday through 2 p.m. Tuesday.
A full moon and strong northeast winds gusting beyond 30 mph will combine to cause moderate coastal flooding.
Water levels are predicted to crest in the hours around high tide on the bay side (Ninth Street Bridge) of Ocean City at 9:31 p.m. Monday. High tide on the bay side of Strathmere near Corson’s Inlet is at 9:17 p.m. Monday.
The NWS predicts a water level of 6.7 feet on the mean low water scale (MLW). By comparison, the peak water level last month (Feb. 13, 2024) during new moon tides reached 6.21 feet MLW. Visit ocnj.us/octides to compare this prediction to other recent and historic tide levels.
Three other high tide cycles on Monday and Tuesday should reach flood stage:
- 9:11 a.m. Monday: 5.6 feet MLW
- 9:44 a.m. Tuesday: 6.5 feet MLW
- 10:03 p.m. Tuesday: 6.2 feet MLW
Residents should be prepared to move vehicles to safe places well in advance of these high tides. The roads closer to the beach including Central and Wesley avenues are typically at higher elevation.
Parking at all municipal parking lots in Ocean City is free (though residents should be aware that access to and from these lots may be limited during peak tides). Parking also 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.
For Police and Fire Department emergencies, call 911. For non-emergencies, call 609-399-9111.
