Nor’easter delivered near hurricane force wind gust, tidal flooding in N.J.

A potent nor’easter brought fierce wind gusts, tidal flooding, and heavy rain to the Jersey Shore on Saturday.

The National Weather Service reported a 67 mph wind gust at 8:44 a.m. in South Seaside Park, the highest officially recorded value.

Peak gusts from Cape May to Monmouth counties ranged from the 40s t0 lower 60s.

Authorities reported scattered power outages and downed power lines, and in many instances, tossed garbage cans and Halloween decorations.

The onshore flow, courtesy of easterly and northeasterly winds, generated moderate to major tidal flooding that forced police to close roadways for a period.

Tidal gauges detected major tidal flooding levels at stations in Margate, Atlantic City, Absecon, Tuckerton, Manasquan, Belmar, Sea Bright, Keansburg, and Sandy Hook.

Another round of tidal flooding, although forecasted to be minor, is likely during the evening high tide cycle.

Generally one to two inches rain fell at the Shore, with the highest totals in Cape May County, where 2.3-inches fells near North Cape May.

Forecasters say the nor’easter will continue to head away from the area on Saturday evening, leading to dry conditions with mostly cloudy skies on Sunday.