The National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Advisory in effect for Ocean City from 3 a.m. through 9 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 31.
With a new moon approaching, tides are expected to be higher than normal and cause “minor” flooding.
Water levels are predicted to peak in the hours around high tide on the bay side (Ninth Street Bridge) of Ocean City at 5:44 a.m. Friday. The NWS predicts a water level of 5.6 feet on the mean low water (MLW) scale. Visit www.ocnj.us/octides to compare this prediction to other recent and historic tide levels.
The advisory is likely to be extended with tides of 5.8 feet MLW predicted for high tide at 6:38 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 1, and 5.7 feet MLW at 7:29 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 2. Rain will contribute to flooding conditions over the weekend.
Because the peak tides fall early in the morning, residents should be prepared to move vehicles to safe places before going to bed. 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).
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. The city urges all motorists to stay off flooded streets at all times.
For Police and Fire Department emergencies, call 911. For non-emergencies, call 609-399-9111.
