STRATHMERE, N.J. (WPVI) — Beaches already battered by recent storms are bracing for another round of erosion, flooding and winter weather as another storm approaches this weekend.
However, Action News meteorologists say the latest models show less of an impact than earlier in the week.
In Strathmere, dunes that once blocked the view of the ocean have been stripped away, leaving the shoreline more vulnerable.
Upper Township Administrator James Van Zlike said the October storm alone removed “something like 3,000 cubic tons of sand,” and the coming system could worsen the damage.
“So in anticipation of this one, we’re probably going to experience severe erosion on top of what has probably happened,” Van Zlike said. “So this is a compounding problem for us.”
Forecasters expect strong wind gusts and the possibility of minor flooding, prompting local officials to prepare drainage systems and clear snow and ice from stormwater paths.
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“The one thing we’re doing primarily right now is uncovering all drains within the island, making sure there’s no snow covering it, breaking ice as it forms on it, and making sure if we have water intrusion, we have an escape plan for it,” Van Zlike said.
In Atlantic County, officials say even a small amount of additional snowfall could create problems. Public Safety Director Michael Fedorko said the region is already dealing with significant accumulation.
“We’ve got about six inches of snow on the ground and with the temperatures as low as they are, below freezing at night and during the day, it’s not gonna go away,” Fedorko said. “So whatever we get in addition to this is gonna be bad.”
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Some municipalities are also facing a salt shortage. In Hamilton Township, public works crews are limiting salt use to emergency routes and intersections while waiting for new supplies.
The township’s vendor is out of stock, and other suppliers are not taking new customers. Fedorko said the county’s supply remains stable.
“We’re in good shape,” he said. “I just got a message from the state police this morning, the OEM, and they’re saying the salt conditions are where they should be.”
Even as winter weather dominates the forecast, local leaders say they are already thinking ahead to summer. With beach erosion mounting, municipalities note they would need federal funding for replenishment projects.
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