Community Corner

Andrea Not Causing Any Major Problems in Long Branch

Winds will be at their highest near the coast, but inland river flooding is one of the largest risks in late spring storm.

Heavy rain, flash flooding and gusty winds are predicted Friday as Tropical Storm Andrea moves up the east coast and toward New Jersey.

However, Long Branch has fared well so far, according to city Office of Emergency Management Coordinator Stanley Dzuiba.

Dzuiba said there has been no flooding along the city's waterfront or residential areas.

Find out what's happening in Long Branch-Eatontownwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The rain has been light on Friday, but could become heavier later in the day in the city.

By Friday, the storm had made landfall in Florida and began its inland trek up the eastern seaboard. The storm was packing 45 mph sustained winds and moving briskly to the northeast at 13 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center in Miami.

Find out what's happening in Long Branch-Eatontownwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

In New Jersey, Jersey Shore residents were expected to experience the highest sustained wind speeds – predicted to be around 40 mph – while the entire state would likely see heavy rain and the potential for flash flooding. Tidal flooding was expected to be relatively minimal and limited to the Friday night high tide cycle, however, according to a forecast released by the National Weather Service's office in Mount Holly.

A flash flood watch remains in effect until 8 a.m. Saturday morning, along with a small craft advisory and a gale warning for offshore waters. Seas were expected to build to 5 to 8 feet offshore by Friday night.

The NWS forecast said the storm will likely be offshore by the time it makes it to New Jersey, meaning the strongest winds would be located over the ocean.

But no one will escape the rain.

"Widespread rainfall amounts of two to four inches are expected, starting late [Thursday] night, and ending on Saturday morning," the forecast said. "Rainfall amounts in this range will produce flash flooding, as well as potential river flooding."

It appears New Jerseyans will escape one major threat that Florida residents dealt with Thursday.

"Tornadoes have been occurring with the system down in Florida, but are not expected to be a threat when Andrea arrives in our region," the forecast said.


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