Berkeley Township, NJ – Residents along the Jersey Shore are being urged to prepare for blizzard conditions, coastal flooding, and possible power outages as a significant winter storm is forecast to strike Sunday and continue into Monday.
The Berkeley Township Office of Emergency Management warned that snowfall totals between 18 and 24 inches are expected, accompanied by wind gusts exceeding 40 miles per hour. Officials cautioned that the combination of heavy snow and strong winds may create whiteout conditions and lead to widespread disruptions.
Bayview Avenue is expected to become impassable due to snow accumulation and flooding, particularly during periods of high tide. Emergency management officials outlined anticipated tide cycles, noting elevated water levels Sunday and Monday that could worsen flooding along the Atlantic Ocean and Barnegat Bay.
High tides are forecast Sunday at 10:57 a.m. and 11:22 p.m., with low tides at 5:08 a.m. and 5:11 p.m. Monday’s high tides are expected at 11:55 a.m. and 12:20 a.m., with low tides at 6:04 a.m. and 6:07 p.m.
Residents in flood-prone areas who wish to relocate vehicles to higher ground may temporarily park at Veteran’s Park, Forest Hills Soccer Field, and the Eastern Soccer Field complexes.
Generator safety and road restrictions emphasized
With winds projected above 40 mph, officials warned of potential Power Outages and reminded residents to operate generators safely. Jersey Central Power & Light issued a storm update advising customers to use generators outdoors only, far from windows and doors, and to ensure proper disconnection from utility lines to prevent backfeeding hazards.
Township officials also directed residents to remove all vehicles and trailers from roadways to avoid interfering with plowing operations as the Winter Storm intensifies.
Trash and recycling collection scheduled for Monday has been suspended. Officials said follow-up pickup dates will be determined after the storm passes.
- Blizzard conditions forecast with 18 to 24 inches of snow
- Coastal flooding expected during high tide cycles
- Vehicles must be cleared from roadways to allow plowing
Emergency management officials warned that the severity of the Blizzard Conditions may delay emergency response times and urged residents to remain patient.
Travel is strongly discouraged. Those who must drive are advised to allow extra time and proceed with caution as conditions deteriorate across Berkeley Township.
High tides to compound storm impact
Officials said the timing of heavy snowfall with peak tide cycles could increase flooding risks in low-lying areas, particularly near the bay and oceanfront.
Township officials urge residents to stay off roads during storm