Coastal storm triggers flood advisory, strong winds along Jersey, Delaware shores
PHILADELPHIA - A coastal storm moving up the Mid-Atlantic coast is set to bring gusty winds, rough surf, and significant tidal flooding risks to the Philadelphia region and the Jersey Shore, according to FOX 29 meteorologist Kathy Orr and the National Weather Service.
Widespread Impacts Expected Across the Region
NJ, Delaware coastal storm: Brewing nor'easter to bring strong winds, flooding concerns
Forecasters are warning of a developing nor'easter that could bring damaging winds and flooding concerns from the Jersey shore to the Delaware beaches.
What we know:
Meteorologists say winds are already gusting up to 30 miles per hour along the shore and are expected to increase by about 10 miles an hour over the next few days, reaching their peak Saturday night into Sunday.
By Sunday, gusts could reach up to 55 miles an hour along the coast and 50 miles an hour in places like Lewes on Saturday.
The National Weather Service warns that a wind advisory remains in effect until 8 p.m. Thursday for New Jersey and Delaware beaches. The advisory predicts northeast winds of 25 to 35 miles an hour with gusts potentially up to 45 miles an hour, which could cause unsecured objects to blow around and a few power outages.
By the numbers:
Local officials expect "one to two feet of inundation above ground level expected in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways," according to the National Weather Service.
The agencies say moderate coastal flooding will start with Wednesday afternoon’s high tide cycle and could continue through at least Friday night, possibly longer.
For the Delaware River at Philadelphia, minor flooding is expected during high tides Wednesday night and Thursday, with moderate flooding forecast Friday and Saturday mornings. Back bay areas in New Jersey and Delaware, including Barnegat Bay, Shrewsbury River, and Indian River Bay, face some of the most significant tidal flooding risks.
Ongoing Weather Concerns Through the Weekend
What's next:
The coastal storm is expected to develop into a nor’easter by Thursday evening, sitting off the Mid-Atlantic coast and tracking northward toward the Jersey Shore and Nantucket.
"This is an extended period of time, and that’s why the beach erosion quite possibly could be significant," said Orr.
Forecasters warn of ongoing on-and-off showers, coastal flooding, and "a high risk of rip currents remain active through Saturday," alongside likely "significant beach erosion and the potential for sand dunes to be breached."
The National Weather Service continues to caution residents: "Do not leave your vehicle at a location that is prone to tidal flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through floodwaters. The water may be deeper than you think it is."
Temperatures are forecast to stay in the 60s and low 70s through the weekend, with a brighter and warmer trend possible next week as the upcoming nor’easter pulls away. The full moon on Friday and Saturday will amplify tidal flooding risks.
Jersey Shore hit with strong winds, coastal flooding
Severe weather and powerful winds are causing flooding throughout coastal communities. FOX 29’s Shawnette Wilson is live in North Wildwood, New Jersey with the latest.
What they're saying:
Many who gathered described the energy along the shore as waves surged onto streets and beaches disappeared underwater.
"Crazy. He loves it. I love this type of weather though," said one person at the scene.
Fawn and Earl Gordon, Wildwood residents, explained how they prepared for the storm.
"We've put up our planters, anything that will gather water. We've tied down everything that needs to be tied down, took down all the umbrellas, all the outdoor stuff and we're ready. The pool is ready, we've taken everything out. Your cars, we've moved to higher ground. We know better. We're gonna flood later," said Fawn Gordon.
"I'm just gonna be getting the sand bags out, just preparing, making sure every device is charged and generator ready in case we lose power," said Earl Gordon.
Along the inlet, the beach was washed away and sandstorms rolled in with the rough surf.
"(You were just covering your eyes. It's the sand and wind blowing). The sand is blowing around my glasses here," said Tom, who owns a home in Wildwood.
"The ocean is so rough. Last time I was here a couple weeks ago the beach was huge and calm and really nice and now you can't even see the beach down there. It's totally covered with water, the waves are this high and it's crazy," said Tom.
Over at the back bay, water flooded streets and residents navigated the rising tide in shorts and bare feet.
"We could be in a better spot, but we typically flood here all the time, so it's not nothing we're not used to, it's what you get for living on the island. You gotta deal with the water, nothing you can do," said Tommy, a Wildwood resident.
"I think it's pretty cool. It's awesome. I just wanted to show him what it was like when a big storm comes in," said a beachgoer with his young son Michael.
"The ocean is so rough. Last time I was here a couple weeks ago the beach was huge and calm and really nice and now you can't even see the beach down there. It's totally covered with water, the waves are this high, and it's crazy," said Tom.
What we don't know:
Forecasters caution that "a lot of details [are] to sort out," and the exact track and impacts of the developing nor’easter remain uncertain. Models continue to be monitored to determine how close the storm will approach the coast and what areas will see the brunt of flooding and wind.
The Source: This article contains information from FOX 29 meteorologist Kathy Orr, National Weather Service statements and advisories and official forecast materials.