Communities along the New Jersey coast are keeping an eye on high tides as they brace for what could be the worst nor’easter in nearly two decades.
Howling winds blew sand from the beach all the way across Ocean Avenue in Spring Lake. At one point, public works crews used trucks to shovel the sand off the road.
In Sea Bright, roaring waves that were several feet high pounded the shore, eating away the sand and leaving a trail of sea foam in its wake. Jonathan Brennan clung onto his coat as he stood at the edge of the water and admired the angry sea.
"I've never seen it like this," said Brennan, who lives in Rumson. "It's amazing to be here and to feel the power of the storm. A once in a lifetime opportunity."
Cape May County had already declared a state of emergency which allows them to use the National Guard to evacuate people if the need arises.
The National Weather Service issued coastal flood warnings, along with high wind and high surf advisories.
Officials fear that sustained winds would prevent water from subsiding, making major flooding a concern with each successive high tide.
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Little Silver resident Joanne Montgomery had to see the beach for herself. Shaking her head in disbelief, Montgomery said "On Sunday, I laid out on this beach. My daughter was in her bikini, it was gorgeous. I can't believe this!"
