Be Alert for Winter Storm

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COURT HOUSE – National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a winter weather advisory for our area which will be in effect from 8 p.m. March 13 to 6 p.m. March 14. 
According to NWS, snow and sleet accumulations of 1 to 2 inches are expected.
Snow begins between 9 and 11 p.m. this evening, becoming heavy for a time near or just after midnight, then changing to sleet and rain early Tuesday, finally ending as snow Tuesday afternoon. 
The snow will lead to slippery roads. Strong winds will lead to blowing snow, reduced visibility, and isolated, brief power outages. 
Temperatures will be in the upper 30s.
A winter weather advisory means that periods of snow, sleet, or freezing rain will cause travel difficulties. Be prepared for slippery roads and limited visibilities. Use caution while driving.
Coastal Flood Warning
NWS has issued a coastal flood warning, which will be in effect from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 14. 
Moderate flooding is expected with the Tuesday morning high tide.
Flooding is anticipated to occur for several hours around the time of high tide. High tide on the New Jersey and Delaware oceanfront occurs between 9:15 and 10:15 a.m. Tuesday. High tide on the back bays, along the Delware Bay and along Raritan Bay occurs later than the high tide on the oceanfront.
Water level will be around 2 to 3 feet above the astronomical tide.
Numerous roadways are expected to flood with many roads becoming impassable. Minor to moderate property damage is possible. Wave action is forecast to result in significant beach erosion.
Lingering minor coastal flooding is possible with Tuesday night’s high tide.
This coastal flood warning means that moderate tidal flooding is imminent. Coastal residents in the warned area should be alert for rising water, and take appropriate action to protect life and property.
Do not drive your vehicle through flood waters. The water may be deeper than you think it is. You will be putting yourself in danger and your vehicle may be damaged, leading to costly repairs.
High Wind Warning
NWS has issued a high wind warning, which will be in effect from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. March 14. 
Expect north winds at 20 to 30 mph, with gusts up to 60 mph.
Winds will increase early Tuesday morning and peak between mid morning and early afternoon, before diminishing late Tuesday afternoon.
Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles.
A high wind warning means a hazardous high wind event is expected or occurring. Sustained wind speeds of at least 40 mph or gusts of 58 mph or more can lead to property damage.
Code Blue Issued
Cape May County Office of Emergency Management has issued a “Code Blue” advisory for the county effective from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. March 13 and March 14, along with the following: 
“The National Weather Service – Mt. Holly office, has advised that the temperature may reach 31 degrees Fahrenheit with precipitation tonight, March 13 and 25 degrees Fahrenheit with precipitation tomorrow night, March 14.
“Please be aware that there may be people in your municipality that may need temporary sheltering during this advisory period. 
“Persons seeking temporary shelter in a warming center should contact their local municipality. Additional resources are available by calling the County Homeless Hot Line Service at 1-877-886-1325 or 609-886-1325.
“If you have any questions or would like additional information please contact our office.”
Additional information regarding a “Code Blue” advisory can be found on the Cape May County Board of Social Services website, http://www.cmcbss.com.
View NWS’ latest briefing as of 5 a.m. March 13 here.
NWS will release their next briefing by 5 p.m. March 13.
Be sure to continue to monitor NWS’ latest forecasts for updated information at http://www.weather.gov/phi/.