According to currently available public information, Tropical Storm Ophelia is predicted to reach our area late Friday night with heavy rain and windy conditions. The amount of precipitation over the next 72 hours is predicted to be 2-3”. During this time, we are expecting North to Northeast winds at 35 mph with gusts to reach 40-60mph.
In preparation for the inclement weather, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) has placed the Port Monmouth facility in "Operational Mode" as of 8:00 PM on Friday. This operation will allow the gates to automatically open and close based on the tides while ensuring the interior drainage basin does not exceed elevation +5.0 NAVD88. For more information about tidal predictions and the status of the Port Monmouth flood control facilities, read this advisory.
The Township's emergency operations team met this afternoon to discuss Tropical Storm Ophelia's path and ways to prepare should Middletown be impacted. Middletown Township Police Department, Fire Department, EMS, and OEM will be fully-staffed for any type of emergency. DPW crews will be on duty and tending to storm-related issues.
The Township may close some roads due to flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flood waters as water may be deeper than you think. You will be putting yourself in danger and your vehicle may be damaged. If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, we advise you to move your vehicle to higher ground tonight. If necessary, you can park at the Middletown Train Station parking lots.
As the heavy winds and rain could knock out power, please adhere to the following rules when using a generator:
- Give 10 feet of clearance from any structure
- Use UL approved extension cords
- Ensure carbon monoxide alarms and smoke detectors are functioning in all businesses/homes while using a generator
Please call Middletown Fire Official Buddy Skelly at 732-615-2272 if you have any questions about how to safely use a generator. If you lose power and decide to burn candles as a source of light, please place the candles on hard, non-flammable surfaces to avoid a potential fire.
To report downed wires or power outages call 1-888-LIGHTSS or click the “Report Outage” link at www.firstenergycorp.com. Please remember, never go near a downed power line, even if you think it is no longer carrying electricity.
For additional weather alert updates, text MIDDLETOWNNJ (no spaces) to 888-777 or visit www.middletownnj.org/NIXLE to register. You can also get local weather updates by visiting US National Weather Service Philadelphia/Mount Holly. We will also be posting additional updates via our social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter).
Thank you and stay safe!