Wildwood, NJ — Wildwood Beach officially reopened Friday following major storm flooding, though large portions remain submerged and swimming restrictions are still in effect. The city’s fireworks show, originally scheduled for tonight, has also been canceled due to waterlogged launch zones.
While lifeguards are on duty, city officials are warning visitors to exercise extreme caution. The storm left much of the beachfront under water, and some amenities — including walkways and portable restrooms — may still be damaged or inaccessible.
The beach reopening follows an intensive cleanup effort led by the Wildwood Public Works Department. Crews have worked around the clock over the past several days to clear debris, restore walkways, and assess storm-related hazards.
“The beach is open, but it’s not business as usual,” one city notice stated, urging beachgoers to remain alert while navigating wet sand and unstable areas.
City officials did not provide a timeline for when full swimming access might be restored, or when the fireworks display may be rescheduled.
Flooding and heavy surf from Hurricane Erin earlier this week triggered widespread closures across the Jersey Shore, forcing lifeguards to bar swimmers and prompting the city to cancel several public events.
Despite the setbacks, tourism remains steady as visitors continue to pour into Wildwood for the final stretch of summer. Officials said they will continue monitoring beach and water conditions daily.
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Key Points
- Wildwood Beach has reopened but swimming restrictions remain due to storm-related flooding
- Portions of the beach remain underwater and some amenities are still damaged
- Tonight’s fireworks show has been canceled due to flooding at the launch site
Wildwood’s summer season takes a hit as fireworks are canceled and beachgoers face limited access after the storm.