Tidal flooding alerts up for the Shore

Widespread minor to locally moderate tidal flooding is likely along the Jersey Shore Thursday evening, forecasters say.

File photo of minor tidal flooding in Seaside Park. (Courtesy of Dominick Solazzo)

File photo of minor tidal flooding in Seaside Park. (Courtesy of Dominick Solazzo)

Widespread minor to locally moderate tidal flooding is likely along the Jersey Shore Thursday evening, forecasters say.

It’s due to a low-pressure system spurring an onshore flow throughout the region as it moves north along the East Coast, according to the National Weather Service.

The latest National Weather Service forecast indicates moderate tidal flooding in Monmouth County and minor tidal flooding elsewhere during tide high, which occurs along the oceanfront between 8:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. and later on the back bays and Raritan Bay.

In Monmouth County, the forecast indicates the possibility of one to two feet of saltwater inundation above ground level in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways, while the risk is up to one foot in the other Shore counties.

  • WHYY thanks our sponsors — become a WHYY sponsor

Minor flooding typically renders vulnerable roadways impassable. Forecasters also expect significant beach erosion. Periods of rain, moderate to heavy at times, will exacerbate any flooding.

“Do not leave your vehicle at a location that is prone to tidal flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flood waters. The water may be deeper than you think it is,” the National Weather Service warns. “You will be putting yourself in danger, and your vehicle may be damaged, leading to costly repairs.”

Additional tidal flooding is possible Friday morning, according to the National Weather Service.

WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on financial support from readers like you. Please give today.

Want a digest of WHYY’s programs, events & stories? Sign up for our weekly newsletter.

Together we can reach 100% of WHYY’s fiscal year goal