Emergency Evacuations in New Jersey: How Hurricane Erin is Causing Severe Flooding

Evacuations are taking place in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, as Hurricane Erin makes its presence felt. Residents in low-lying areas and guests in motels are being moved to safer locations due to flooding.

According to Police Chief Frederick Spano, significant flooding is impacting the West Atlantic City section, with waters nearing homes. Although Wildwood hasn’t ordered evacuations, Rio Grande Avenue, a major road, has closed due to high water levels.

Social media users are sharing images and videos of flooding across various coastal areas, including Long Beach Island and Atlantic City. The National Weather Service has issued coastal flood warnings, forecasting high waves that could push 2 to 3 feet of ocean water inland along the Shore.

Warnings remain in effect through Saturday for several counties, including Atlantic and Cape May. Wind advisories are also set from Thursday morning into Friday in Atlantic and Ocean counties.

Hurricane Erin, which formed on August 11 near the Cabo Verde Islands, is the first Atlantic hurricane of 2025. Although it isn’t expected to make landfall, it brings dangerous rip tides, high surf, and potential for flooding as it moves northward.

Governor Phil Murphy stated, “We expect to face the storm’s worst impacts today and tomorrow.” He declared a state of emergency in anticipation of the hurricane’s effects. Earlier in the week, several Jersey Shore beaches implemented swim bans due to hazardous conditions for both swimmers and boaters.

The hurricane is predicted to generate some of the roughest surf since Tropical Storm Isaias in August 2020, which produced waves of 10 to 12 feet. Forecasts suggest offshore waves may reach between 15 and 17 feet on Thursday, posing risks to small boats.

As tropical storms become more frequent due to climate change, experts emphasize the need for communities to adapt their emergency plans and infrastructure. Preparedness can significantly reduce risks during severe weather events.

For more detailed weather updates, check the National Weather Service site here.

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