Barnegat Readies for Possible Storm

While forecasters are now expecting Hurricane Irene to veer further east and avoid making landfall in New Jersey, Barnegat Township officials are taking no chances, and are readying for possible high wind and flooding conditions this weekend.

“The township always has a high level of concern when a hurricane moves up the coast,” said township administrator David Breeden. “The last thing we want is be caught short. We’re advising our residents to be aware of the pending storm and stay current on weather forecasts.” 

Right now, said Breeden, those forecasts predict possible 50- to 70-mph winds, 6 to 10 inches of rain and potentially significant storm surge, made worse by higher-than-normal tides. 

“I would say to residents, plan on a big coastal storm," he said.

As the storm approaches, public works employees are focusing on the bayfront, said Breeden, because the impact is likely to be most severe there. The municipal beach will be closed Saturday and Sunday, and employees will remove trash and recycling containers, make sure drains are open and flowing and put up barricades where needed.

The township will also be checking generators and taking inventory of tree-cutting tools and equipment.

While an evacuation seems unlikely at this point, said Breeden, it’s something coastal residents should always be aware of as a possibility. If an evacuation is called for, township police officers will go in person to the affected areas to notify residents. 

Mayor Jeff Melchiondo encouraged residents to sign up for email or phone alerts through Nixle, the township’s reverse 9-1-1 system, which he said was the best way to get the latest on local storm preparation and emergency response. Residents can also check the township website for information, he said.