Heavy rain will combine with flooding at the shore. (Courtesy of National Weather Service)
The National Weather Service has extended a Coastal Flood Advisory for Ocean City, Strathmere and nearby coastal areas through 3 p.m. Friday.
The NWS also issued a Coastal Flood Watch that warns of much more severe flooding from Sunday morning (Oct. 12) through Monday evening (Oct. 13).
Strong northeast winds combined with an exceptionally high tide from a recent full moon will cause “minor” coastal flooding conditions on Friday morning. A powerful nor’easter will move up the coast and bring “moderate” to “major” flooding on Sunday and Monday, according to the forecast.
Water levels are predicted to crest in the hours around high tide on the bay side (Ninth Street Bridge) of Ocean City at 11:09 a.m. Friday. High tide on the bay side of Strathmere near Corson’s Inlet is at 10:50 a.m. Friday.
The NWS predicts a peak water level of 5.6 feet on the mean low water scale (MLW). By comparison, the water level reached 5.64 feet MLW on Thursday morning. Visit www.ocnj.us/octides to compare this prediction to other recent and historic tide levels.
The forecast calls for a coastal storm to move through the region Sunday through Monday with wind gusts up to 60 mph and heavy rainfall both possible.
Winds gusts could hit 55 mph or higher on Sunday and Monday at the coast.Moderate (6.3 feet MLW to 7.3 feet MLW) to major (greater than 7.3 feet MLW) flooding is possible. High tides during this period are at 12:42 a.m. Sunday, 1:05 p.m. Sunday, 1:46 a.m. Monday, and 2:08 p.m. Monday.
Everyone is urged to continue to follow updates to this forecast as the storm approaches.
Residents should be prepared to monitor conditions and 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 is now free at all municipal lots in the city. Parking also will be available at the Trinity United Methodist Church at 20 North Shore Road in Marmora.
Residents should take the time to secure loose items and furniture on their properties. Contractors should make sure job sites are secure. Boat owners along exposed bayfront should consider taking their boats out of the water or checking lines and bilge pumps.
For your safety and the protection of your vehicle and neighboring properties, never drive on any street covered by water. Please do not disregard barricades on flooded streets.
For Police and Fire Department emergencies, call 911. For non-emergencies, call (609) 399-9111.
