Coastal Flooding Expected Thursday, Friday Nights

OCNJ Daily

The National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Advisory in effect for Ocean City, Strathmere and nearby coastal areas on Thursday night. A more severe Coastal Flood Watch will be in effect for Friday night. A recent new moon, rain and building onshore winds will combine to cause flooding conditions over the next two nights. Water levels are predicted to crest in the hours around high tide on the bay side (Ninth Street Bridge) of Ocean City at 10:07 p.m. Thursday and 10:54 p.m. Friday. High tides on the bay side of Strathmere near Corson’s Inlet are at 9:55 p.m. Thursday and 10:41 p.m. Friday. The NWS predicts a water level of 5.8 feet on the mean low water scale (MLW) for Thursday night, which falls in the range for “minor” flooding. The forecast calls for a water level of 6.4 feet MLW on Friday night, which is in range for “moderate” flooding. By comparison, Wednesday evening’s water level reached 5.51 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 to safe places well in advance of these high tides. The roads closer to the beach including Central and Wesley avenues are typically at higher elevation. Parking at all municipal lots in Ocean City is free. 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). 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.