The National Weather Service issued a Coastal Flood Watch in effect for Ocean City from Thursday morning through Thursday afternoon.
The NWS does not typically issue this type of notification so many days in advance, but the Flood Watch predicts water levels in the high range of moderate flooding and approaching major flooding.
The National Weather Service predicts a water level of 7 feet on the mean low water (MLW) scale for a high tide at 9:55 a.m. Thursday (Dec. 17) on the bay side of Ocean City. That level would represent the highest Ocean City tide in more than two years. Visit
www.ocnj.us/octides to compare that prediction to recent and historic tide levels.
The latest forecast calls for a major storm to bring heavy rain and sustained northeast winds of 30 to 40 mph, gusting to 58 mph, in addition to a higher-than-normal astronomical tide. These factors would contribute to flooding conditions.
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).
Please monitor the forecasts and check back here for updates as the predictions may change for better or worse as this weather system approaches.
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.
For Police and Fire Department emergencies, call 911. For non-emergencies, call 609-399-9111.
