The National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Watch for Ocean City, Strathmere and nearby coastal areas in effect from Saturday morning through Sunday afternoon.
An offshore low-pressure system is expected to generate the highest tides experienced this year. They would fall in the middle of the range for “moderate” tidal flooding.
Water levels are predicted to peak in the hours around high tide on the bay side (Ninth Street Bridge) of Ocean City at 11:19 a.m. Saturday. High tide on the bay side of Strathmere near Corson’s Inlet is at 11:01 a.m. Saturday.
The NWS predicts a water level of 6.8 feet on the mean low water scale (MLW) for Saturday morning. By comparison, the water level reached 6.19 feet MLW on Friday morning and 6.21 feet MLW on Feb. 13, 2024 (the highest of the year so far). Visit www.ocnj.us/octides to compare this prediction to other recent and historic tide levels.
A Coastal Flood Advisory remains in effect through Friday night with a water level of 6.2 feet MLW predicted for 10:53 p.m. Friday (Sept. 20). The weekend Coastal Flood Watch also will include the following tides:
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 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.
