SEASIDE HEIGHTS, NJ – Residents along the Jersey Shore this weekend are preparing for possible effects as Hurricane Ian makes its way north into the region.
The National Weather Service warns of heavy periods of rain, moderate winds and coastal flooding along the Jersey Shore between Friday night and Tuesday morning.
“There is potential for heavy rain in northern Delmarva and southern New Jersey, especially along coastal areas. Periods of rain will develop Friday evening and will continue through Tuesday (not all due to the impacts of Ian). The main period of concern with the heavy rain threat is Friday night through Saturday. Rain amounts of 2 to 5 inches are possible for coastal areas of Delaware and New Jersey,” the National Weather Service warned on Friday. ” For other areas along and southeast of the Interstate 95 corridor, 1 to 2 inches of rain is possible. North and west of the Interstate 95 corridor, rain amounts are expected to be generally up to one inch.”
Along the Delaware River, Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, tidal flooding is expected to peak on Sunday.
“Peak water levels are currently expected to occur on Sunday producing minor coastal flooding. Minor approaching moderate flooding is possible on Sunday particularly along the Delaware coasts. The coastal flooding threat will occur primarily with the afternoon/evening high tide cycles but spotty minor conditions will be possible with the overnight high tides. Coastal flooding threat decreases but remains possible on Monday,” the NWS said.
Winds are expected to be between 15 to 25 miles per hour with gusts of up to 30 to 40 miles per hour along the coast and as far north as Interstate 78.
Gale force winds are expected to affect boaters on Saturday and Sunday.