ATLANTIC COUNTY, N.J. (KYW Newsradio) — At the Jersey Shore, emergency management officials said they're ready for whenever Henri delivers.
Henri could bring heavy rain to the shore, and Vince Jones, director of Atlantic County Emergency Management, said they'll be keeping a close eye on how it plays out. Flooding is one of the top concerns.
"Yeah, we have our typical bad spots, if you will, along U.S. Rt. 30 from Absecon into Atlantic City. The Black Horse Pike, as it's referred to, Route 322 through Egg Harbor Township. Those areas are prone to flooding," he detailed.
Jones said a full moon might make high tide a little higher than normal, so timing is key. If the storm passes at high tide, it could make matters a little worse. He encouraged everyone at the shore to keep current on the forecast and stay home if things get bad.
"It's like any other storm. Until it's way out of our area, they need to just really pay attention and watch the track. Keep an eye on this storm and don't let their guard down," he said.
"If they have to go out driving, we ask that they don't drive through some of them flooded roadways."
You never know just how deep that water is or what lies beneath.
Naturally, people are drawn to the beach when storms pass. Jones urged people to respect Henri's power and be careful near the water, because strong rip currents are likely.
"It doesn't take much," he warned. "They can be standing in ankle deep water and the next thing you know they're getting pulled out into the surf."
And Jones advised people not to take any unnecessary chances which could place first responders at risk when they need to make a rescue.
