Avalon issues voluntary evacuation ahead of Hurricane Irene

The Avalon Office of Emergency Management has issued a voluntary evacuation order for all visitors and residents as Hurricane Irene moves in, according to the borough website.

“It appears that Hurricane Irene will bring hurricane-force winds, heavy rain, and coastal flooding to Avalon”, said Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi who also serves as the Borough’s Emergency Management Coordinator.

“We are asking visitors and residents to secure their properties and consider relocating to a safe and secure offshore location for their own safety. It is possible the local, county, and state offices of emergency management may call for a mandatory evacuation Thursday afternoon or Friday.

Residents are asked to secure their properties and take an emergency kit if they evacuate.

N.J. Gov. Chris Christie will address the state’s plans for Irene.