Coastal Flood Watch, High Wind Warning Issued For Ocean County

OCEAN COUNTY, NJ — Ocean County officials are urging residents to take precautions with the approach of a coastal storm that is expected to pack strong winds and cause coastal flooding.

The National Weather Service has issued a coastal flood watch through Saturday evening, along with a high wind warning for Friday into Saturday, the Ocean County Sheriff's Office said in a pair of alerts.

The flooding and wind threats are due to a possible tropical storm forming off the Atlantic coast, the weather service said. The storm, which was moving toward North Carolina Thursday afternoon, is forecast to bring 2 to 4 inches of rain along with the flooding and wind.

Rip current warnings are again in place and authorities are urging people to stay out of the water through the weekend.

The coastal flooding, which is in place through 8 p.m. Saturday, could be as much as 1 to 2 feet of inundation above ground level in low-lying areas and tidal waterways, the weather service said. Southern Ocean County and Long Beach Island in particular expected to see more significant amounts.

Low-lying roads that flood likely will be affected and become impassable, the weather service warned. Low-lying back bay areas likely will be affected as well.

"With the long duration of onshore winds expected, the back bays may struggle to drain during low tides," the weather service said. Coastal flooding "minor to moderate" could linger after high tide.

"If travel is required, allow extra time as some roads may be closed. Do not drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth. Take the necessary actions to protect flood-prone property," forecasters said.

The high wind warning is in effect from midnight Friday to 8 p.m. Saturday, with northeast winds of 30 to 40 mph, with gusts up to 60 mph.

"Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines," the weather service said. "Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles. People should avoid being outside around trees. Use caution if you must drive."

Authorities are urging people to move vehicles from flood-prone areas and to make sure outdoor items are secured from the wind.