Flood warnings issued for all of Jersey Shore as Storm Erin approaches.

As Hurricane Erin continues its approach along the Eastern Seaboard, New Jersey’s coastal areas are bracing for significant weather-related impacts, including potential flooding in beach towns from Sandy Hook to Cape May Point. The National Weather Service has issued coastal flood warnings that will remain in effect until 2 a.m. Saturday, highlighting the possibility of localized major flooding expected Thursday evening.

Although the expected rainfall amounts are minimal, the weather agency warns that road flooding could obstruct travel, particularly in low-lying sectors and back-bay areas of barrier islands, where structural damage to properties is also a concern. Minor flooding is anticipated during high tide events on Friday and Saturday, posing additional risks to residents and visitors alike. While winds could gust up to 45 mph along the shore, water-related impacts are considered the primary threat.

Officials at various shore towns are actively engaged in educating residents and newcomers about the potential hazards associated with flooding at the shore, emphasizing the importance of awareness, especially as the region has already experienced conditions conducive to flooding this week due to strong onshore winds. Coastal municipalities are taking precautionary measures to safeguard the public, especially concerning flooding events that may be unfamiliar to many visitors.

Mayor Jay Gillian of Ocean City has expressed concerns regarding the potential for flooding, particularly in areas accustomed to back-bay inundation. Meteorologists, including senior meteorologist Bob Larsen from AccuWeather, predict that the back bay regions will face the most severe flooding, compounded by winds that are likely to pile water into the bays and impede natural drainage.

The storm, exhibiting renewed vigor, was reported to be approximately 350 miles from Cape May, with peak wind speeds reaching 110 mph as it moved northward. The worst impacts from Erin are expected around 8 p.m. Thursday, highlighting the storm’s serious threat even as it passes offshore.

In addition to flooding concerns, the new moon occurring Saturday could exacerbate tidal impacts, raising water levels across the region. Beach erosion and increased congestion in back bays are anticipated as a result of storm conditions, with wave heights potentially reaching 12 to 17 feet near the shore.

As precautionary measures remain in place, swimming bans along the coast are expected to continue into the weekend, a necessary decision to ensure public safety, especially given the heightened risk of rip currents. As the storm subsides, forecasts suggest improved weather conditions with sunny skies and temperatures reaching the 80s over the weekend, providing a welcome reprieve for the region after the storm’s passing.

Local authorities and meteorologists encourage residents and visitors to remain informed as they monitor the aftermath of Hurricane Erin, emphasizing the importance of adhering to safety advisories in the days following the storm. With these advisories in place, the ocean and beach conditions are expected to improve, allowing for safer beach experiences in the future.