Heavy rain, coastal flooding and strong winds are expected during the weekend storm. (Image courtesy of National Weather Service)
The National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Watch in effect for Ocean City from 11 p.m. Saturday through 6 a.m. Sunday.
Strong northeast winds are expected to develop Saturday and continue into the beginning of the work week. Sustained wind speeds will be 30 to 35 mph with gusts up to 50 mph. Heavy rain is also in the forecast.
Water levels are expected to peak in the hours around high tide on the bay side (Ninth Street Bridge) of Ocean City at 1:40 a.m. Sunday. At this time, the National Weather Service predicts a water level of 6.4 feet mean low water (MLW). The NWS categorizes “moderate” tidal flooding as water levels between 6.3 feet and 7.3 feet MLW. Visit
www.ocnj.us/octides to compare this prediction to other recent and historic tide levels.
Residents should be prepared to move vehicles from flood-prone areas before going to bed on Saturday night. The roads closer to the beach including Central and Wesley avenues are typically at higher elevation. Free parking is available at all municipal lots in town. 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).
Loose objects on your property should be brought inside or secured. All contractors are asked to secure job sites. Driving conditions could be hazardous. 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.
With the strong winds predicted to continue, further NWS coastal flood advisories will be likely. Subsequent high tides will be at 2:35 p.m. Sunday, 2:36 a.m. Monday and 3:33 p.m. Monday.
For Police and Fire Department emergencies, call 911. For non-emergencies, call 609-399-9111.
