Toms River OEM Urges Residents To Heed Nor'easter Warnings

TOMS RIVER, NJ — The Toms River Office of Emergency Management is issuing a number of updates and warnings ahead of the nor'easter that is expected to begin drenching the area Thursday evening and bring strong winds on Friday.

The National Weather Service warnings say there are possibilities of sustained winds of up to 50 mph, heavy rain and coastal flooding, and officials are urging Toms River residents to take precautions, including being prepared for power outages and moving vehicles from flood-prone areas.

"As it stands, we are looking at 1.5 to 2 inches (of rain) and possible some slush mixed in" through Friday, emergency management officials said in a post on Facebook. "The wind will also be a factor through Saturday as it is predicted to range from 35-50 miles per hour. Having said that, please take precautions to secure any outdoor furniture."

The Office of Emergency Management also is reminding residents to have flashlights and/or candles available if the power goes out, and to have other supplies, including water and food that does not need to be cooked.

If the wind brings down power lines, residents are reminded to stay away from them. Information shared by Toms River emergency management officials warns that a downed power line can energize the area up to 35 feet away from it, and that driving through puddles where a downed line is resting is dangerous for that reason.

The storm is expected to bring rain starting Thursday evening, with the strongest wind arriving Friday afternoon into Friday evening, according to the National Weather Service.

Logo via Toms River Office of Emergency Management