Ocean County Prepares for Sunday's Coastal Flood Advisory

Alright, listen up folks in Ocean County! Just a heads-up, the National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Advisory for this coming Sunday, January 2026. It’s looking like we could see some minor coastal flooding, especially around those high tide cycles. So, you know, it’s time to start thinking ahead a little.

What exactly does that mean for us? Well, when they say "minor coastal flooding," we're generally talking about anywhere from one to two feet of water above ground in the really low-lying areas. This isn’t a huge storm, thankfully, but it's enough to cause a bit of a headache. Think about those usual suspect spots – the roads right near the water, some parking lots, maybe even a few yards if you're really close to the bay or ocean.

The advisory, coming straight from the NWS office in Mount Holly, covers all the coastal communities here in Ocean County. We're talking about places like Toms River, Brick, Stafford, Lacey, Long Beach Island, and everywhere in between where the water tends to creep up. It's during those high tides on Sunday that we'll really feel the effects, so keep an eye on your local tide charts or just be aware if you live in one of those vulnerable spots.

So, what's the game plan? The big thing is to be proactive. If you typically park your car in an area that's prone to flooding, now's the time to think about moving it to higher ground before Sunday morning. Seriously, don't wait until the water starts rising. And when you're out and about, please, please don't try to drive through floodwaters. It’s just not worth the risk to your car – or worse, to yourself. "Turn around, don't drown" isn't just a catchy phrase; it's genuinely good advice.

This isn't meant to cause panic, not at all. It's simply about staying informed and taking those small, smart precautions. Keep an eye on local news updates, check in with neighbors, and just generally be mindful of the conditions as Sunday approaches. A little preparation goes a long way in making sure we all navigate this minor weather event smoothly. Stay safe out there, Ocean County!