The National Weather Service issued a Coastal Flood Advisory in effect for Ocean City, Strathmere and nearby coastal areas from 4 a.m. to 12 p.m. Friday, Dec. 23. A Wind Advisory will be in effect from 10 p.m. Thursday through 7 p.m. Friday.
A new moon tide, heavy rain and southerly winds gusting beyond 50 mph will combine to cause tidal flooding approaching the “moderate” category on Friday morning.
Water levels are predicted to crest in the hours around high tide on the bay side (Ninth Street Bridge) of Ocean City at 7:43 a.m. Friday. High tide on the bay side of Strathmere near Corson’s Inlet is at 7:18 a.m. Friday.
The NWS predicts a water level of 6.2 feet on the mean low water scale (MLW). By comparison, the peak water level on Oct. 3, 2022, reached 6.53 feet MLW as the remnants of Hurricane Ian passed through the region. Visit www.ocnj.us/octides to compare this prediction to other recent and historic tide levels.
Residents should be prepared to move vehicles to safe places well in advance of the Friday morning high tide or before going to bed on Thursday night. 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 will be 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).
Residents should secure or bring in loose items outdoors in yards and on decks, and contractors are asked to secure job sites.
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.
