Monday, March 13, 2017

Atlantic County Prepares for March Winter Storm

A winter storm warning has been issued for our area beginning late Monday, March 13 through Tuesday, March 14 with the potential for a wintry mix of rain, sleet and snow, high winds with gusts up to 50 mph, and moderate coastal flooding that may impact travel and result in scattered power outages.

While there remains some uncertainty about the storm track there appears to be little doubt that the storm will impact our area with some form of precipitation over the next 48 hours.

“The calendar may say March but it will feel more like February. Winter is not yet over,” stated County Executive Dennis Levinson. “County emergency management officials and public work crews are closely monitoring this storm and preparing accordingly, as should our residents.”

Atlantic County public work crews will be pre-treating county roadways as needed in preparation for any snow accumulation. Because of recent cold temperatures snow will accumulate more quickly on cold surfaces. Gusty winds will cause blowing snow and reduced visibility in some areas. Motorists are urged to exercise caution and to stay well behind salt trucks and snow plows.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and to register with CodeRED, the county’s Community Notification System, at www.ReadyAtlantic.org.

Officials also recommend they check and restock disaster supply kits for their homes and vehicles, refuel vehicles, charge electronic devices, check on elderly and compromised relatives and neighbors, and be sure to have cash and any necessary prescription medicines on hand.

Residents along the coast where the highest wind gusts are expected should secure or move indoors any outdoor items that could become air borne such as trash cans. Those who live in areas that typically flood should consider moving their vehicles to higher ground prior to Tuesday morning’s high tide at approximately 9:30 AM on the ocean and 1-2 hours later along the back bays. Motorists should make every effort to avoid driving through flood waters and seek alternate routes rather than risk travel on flood-prone roadways such as the Black Horse and White Horse pikes in and out of Atlantic City.

Residents in need of assistance during the storm should contact their local office of emergency management. Contacts numbers are available on www.ReadyAtlantic.org, and in the phone book.

For more winter storm preparation information visit:

http://www.readyatlantic.org/prepare/winter.asp

County News