Township Preparing for Late Winter Storm; Coastal Flooding Likely
The National Weather Service has updated their forecast for the impending Nor’easter storm that is headed in our direction.
A Nor’easter will affect our region starting Wednesday morning through Thursday night. Threats from the storm include heavy rain, chance of snow, coastal flooding, and wind. Along the Atlantic Coast of New Jersey, moderate coastal flooding is likely; moderate to major beach erosion is also likely. Winds will gust up to 40 mph while gusts of 50-60 mph are possible. A combination of high winds and wet snow will produce a threat of significant power outages.
The timeline for the tides are as follows:
- Wednesday High Tide: 2:02 A.M. and 2:37 P.M.
- Thursday High Tide: 3:10 A.M. and 3:45 P.M.
Tides of up to 2 feet above normal will occur at the times of high tide Wednesday afternoon, Thursday afternoon and very early Friday morning. The high tide that occurs around 2am on Thursday will be three to perhaps 4 feet above normal causing moderate coastal flooding. This will flood the streets in areas normally prone to coastal flooding. Residents with vehicles in these areas are strongly encouraged to move them to a safe location. Fortunately, astronomical tides are not high during this period. A complete wash over of the beaches is likely Wednesday night and beach erosion will be an issue due to the persistent high tides and rough surf.
Based on the above information from the National Weather Service, Mayor Steven Acropolis and Chief Nils R. Bergquist are strongly encouraging any residents currently residing on the barrier island section of town and residents in those areas throughout the town that are prone to flooding, to relocate or take the appropriate action for their safety. The Brick Township Office of Emergency Management will continue to monitor the storm and provide any new updates as deemed necessary.
Anyone who is of need of assistance in relocating can contact the Brick Township Police Department for assistance at 732-262-1100.