Jersey Shore Braces for Monday’s Flooding as Nor’easter Intensifies

High waves and tides have closed major New Jersey coastal roadways, and meteorologists forecast the worst nor’easter flooding on Monday afternoon. High tides could flood highways and neighborhoods, say officials.

Floodwaters closed all Egg Harbor Township Black Horse Pike (U.S. 40) lanes west of the Atlantic City Expressway. Between Illinois Avenue in Absecon and Indiana Avenue in Atlantic City, White Horse Pike was closed. Water breaches stopped many roadways early Monday.

Midmorning floods threaten Ocean City’s Great Egg Harbor Bay, Barnegat Bay near Barnegat Light, and Atlantic City’s oceanside. The National Weather Service reported minor flooding in Cape May Harbor, Watson Creek in Manasquan, and Monmouth County north of Avenel Boulevard in Long Branch. Closed morning routes north of Avenel Boulevard.

Flooding worse than Monday’s high tides is forecast all day. Today afternoon and evening, the National Weather Service predicts moderate to major coastal flooding after Sunday and early Monday rain.

Strathmere Bay may peak at 1:55 p.m. and Ocean City’s Ninth Street Bridge at 2:08. Monday’s tides may exceed Hurricane Erin’s 7.06-foot August. 7.6-foot peak is higher.

Tree collapses, wind damage, and road closures occur. In Union County, trees and debris impede I-78 and West Milford and Jefferson Route 23. Even without barriers, officials advise drivers to avoid flooded roadways because water levels might mislead.

Coastal hurricanes hurt more than NJ. Northeast states have declared emergencies and sent personnel. The nor’easter swamped the Southeast beach after a weekend of rain and storm.

Residents, workers, and emergency responders must be careful Monday afternoon. Floods can destroy infrastructure, close neighborhoods, and injure beachside residents. Follow travel rules and prepare for the worst when the tide is high, urge officials.

Sources
Washington Post
Fox Weather
NJ.com
6abc / WPVI
WHYY