Township officials met this morning with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection in advance of the pending Hurricane Henri. The State has moved the new tide gate and pump station on Port Monmouth Road into “spring mode" so it will be fully operational for the duration of the storm. The rising tide will be prevented from entering Pews Creek and the stormwater pumps will activate to remove rainwater from the protected side of the tide gate. The Township’s floodgate on Wilson Avenue will be left in the open position so water from the surrounding flood prone streets can drain to the pumps at the new tide gate.
Per the US National Weather Service Philadelphia/Mount Holly, the greatest impact in our area is expected to be heavy rainfall. If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, we advise you to move your vehicle to higher ground. If necessary, you can park at the Middletown Train Station parking lots.
According to the U.S. National Park Service, Gateway National Recreation Area will be closed on Sunday, August 22nd due to Hurricane Henri. Some parts of the park are already impassable to the public due to several gates being closed. Beaches are also closed to recreational activity.
Please adhere to the following rules when using a generator as the storm-force winds and potential for heavy rain could knock out power.
- 10 feet of clearance is required 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
- Keep generators away from open windows so fumes do not spread to people
If you have any questions about how to safely use a generator, please call Middletown Fire Official Buddy Skelly at 732-615-2272.
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 they 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!