The Stone Harbor Office of Emergency Management is asking visitors to consider leaving the Borough of Stone Harbor during the afternoon and early evening hours on Saturday, September 3rd. The National Weather Service is calling for the possibility of a “life threatening storm surge” during this event, which is expected to linger off the coast for at least a few days. High tide in Stone Harbor occurs at 10:36am, and again at 10:48pm on Saturday; high tide on Sunday occurs at 11:14am and again at 11:25pm. Moderate to potentially major coastal flooding is expected at times of high tide on Sunday and again on Monday. Weather and flooding conditions may worsen on Sunday and Monday. If the storm remains off of our coast for an extended period of time, it may worsen subsequent high tide events over the next few days.

During significant tidal events in the Borough, driving on some portions of major roadways may be very difficult or impossible. Never attempt to drive on any flooded street for any reason at any time. You endanger yourself, compromise your vehicle with salt water, and create a wake that can damage others’ personal property when you drive through flood waters.

Bathers are not permitted to enter the ocean in Stone Harbor until further notice. Boaters are asked to check on their boats, secure them, and if possible, remove them from slips. Secure all property prone to wind including trash cans, umbrellas, patio furniture, and the like. The Townsend’s Inlet Bridge between Avalon and Sea Isle City was closed at 10:00am due to flooding.

The Stone Harbor Office of Emergency Management will be involved in a meeting with the Cape May County Office of Emergency Management later this morning to obtain further guidance, directions, and anticipated impact from this tropical storm system.

Residents, property owners, and visitors are encouraged to constantly visit www.stoneharboremergency.com for the latest updates, advisories, directions, and information regarding Tropical Storm Hermine.