Dear Friends,
I want to make sure everybody is fully prepared for Tropical Storm Elsa tonight.
We continue to track the system and hope that we are spared the worst. We have a few things working in our favor. Because the system is moving over land, storm surge and tidal flooding are not part of the forecast. The heaviest rain and strongest winds are expected to coincide with low tide in the overnight hours. And the system is moving fast. We should be in the clear in plenty of time for the weekend.
But Elsa remains a strong storm, and any change in direction or timing could make a dramatic difference. The forecast calls for winds that could reach 50 mph and for rain that could exceed several inches.
Please take the time today to secure all loose items on your properties – bring in porch and deck furniture, take down flags, and take care of anything that could be damaged by the wind. I also urge you to make sure your vehicles are in a safe place before going to bed tonight.
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. The city also will open all municipal parking lots (surface lots and metered lots) for free safe parking. The parking will be free starting at 9 p.m. tonight, but all vehicles must be removed by noon Friday. Please be aware that while these lots will offer a safe spot, flooding may block access to them during the storm.
Driveways and street parking near mid-block are safer, if those options are available. Please do not drive around police barricades, and for the protection of your own vehicle and properties that can be damaged by your vehicle’s wake, never drive through flood waters.
Our trash and recycling contractor will do its best to maintain a normal schedule for pickup on Friday.
Many of you are familiar with these storm advisories, but it’s not too often that they are necessary during the height of the summer season. Please keep an eye out on your neighbors and our guests and help them with anything they need and with directing them to safe parking.
Warm regards,
Mayor Jay A. Gillian
