The National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Watch in effect for Ocean City starting at 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 8, and lasting through Monday night.
Strong northeast winds will push water and rough surf toward the coastline during higher-than-normal tides as we approach a new moon this weekend. Forecasters also predict periods of heavy rain.
Water levels are expected to peak in the hours around high tide on the bay side of Ocean City at the following times (with predictions on the mean low water scale):
8:01 p.m. Saturday (5.9 MLW)
8:32 a.m. Sunday (5.6 MLW)
8:50 p.m. Sunday (6.8 MLW
9:19 a.m. Monday (6.4 MLW)
9:37 p.m. Monday (6.1 MLW)
Visit
www.ocnj.us/octides to compare those predictions 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.
Rough surf is expected to develop through the weekend. Please swim only at beaches guarded by the Ocean City Beach Patrol. See list at
www.ocnj.us/OCBP.
For Police and Fire Department emergencies, call 911. For non-emergencies, call 609-399-9111.
