Berkeley Twp. Blizzard Warning: Move Vehicles, Flooding Possible

BERKELEY, NJ — With a blizzard warning in effect for Ocean County and forecasters predicting up to 18 inches of snow and strong winds, Berkeley Township officials have issued several reminders to residents ahead of the storm.

A blizzard warning is in effect for Ocean County from 7 p.m. Friday through 7 p.m. Saturday, with a potential for 12 to 18 inches of snow and winds gusting as high as 50 mph.

In addition, coastal flooding is anticipated in areas that flood often during the hours before and after high tide Saturday morning.

Gov. Phil Murphy has declared a state of emergency that takes effect at 5 p.m. Friday.

Berkeley Township officials are reminding residents to get their vehicles off the streets to allow plow crews to do their jobs. Parking on streets is prohibited during snowstorms that require plowing, Berkeley Township police said.

Mayor Carmen Amato urged residents to make sure they have secured all loose items on their property, such as patio furniture, chairs, tables, sporting equipment, and awnings.

Amato also urged residents to make sure they have needed supplies.

"Please make sure you have sufficient food and water supply along with medications you may need over a few days," he said. "Check on your neighbors, including the elderly."

Because of the anticipated snowfall it could take as much as 24 hours to clear all the roads in Berkeley, Amato said. The township has 271 miles of roads to clear, in addition to nearly 300 courts, cul-de-sacs and dead end streets.

"If you have to venture out during the snow, although we do not recommend it, please remove all snow from your car, especially the hood of your vehicle, before driving," he said.

Residents in low-lying areas that frequently flood, can use the upper parking lot at the Berkeley Recreation Center or the lower lot at the Central Regional Middle School for vehicles.

If there is a power outage, call 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877), or go to www.jcp-l.com.

Downed power lines should be immediately reported to JCP&L at 1-888-544-4877 and to the Berkeley Township Police Department at 732-341-6600.

Do not go near a downed power line, even if you think it is no longer carrying electricity.

In case of an EMERGENCY dial 9-1-1.

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