River Is Rising, Shelters Open

Unlike Irene, the full moon has powered Sandy into a tidal storm that can prove to be more devastating than Irene. Meteorologists are predicting that the high tides, mixed with heavy rains, will trigger flooding as the hurricane merges with a winter storm system that will worsen it and hold it in place for days.

The Hackensack's high tide has already caused the river to spill over onto New Bridge Road resulting in a road closure before even a drop of rain has fallen.

Police Chief Frank Papapietro, who also heads Emergency Management, is encouraging residents who live in the flood prone areas to begin evacuating now.

Papapietro said that the County has opened a shelter at Bergen Community College.

The shelter can house those with special needs and pets, according to the county executive's office. Officials reminded residents to bring clothes and medications, and bring a carrier case for pets. 

Bergen Community College is located at 400 Paramus Road.

Other shelters are located at:

• Northern Valley Demarest High School, 150 Knickerbocker Rd, Demarest
• Lyndhurst Senior Citizens Center, 281 Stuyvesant Avenue, Lyndhurst

To report a down wire or a power outage, call PSE&G at 1-800-463-7734.

Papapietro asks that residents use 9-1-1 for emergencies only. All non-emergency calls should go to 201-261-1400.

Papapietro also asks that everyone in low-lying flood prone areas move their cars to higher ground. All overnight parking rules have been suspended. He also encourages everyone to stay off the roads. 

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