Hermine Continues Eastward Track; Coastal Flooding Still a Concern

COURT HOUSE – Cape May County remains under a tropical storm warning, according to National Weather Service (NWS).       
A tropical storm warning means sustained winds of 34 to 63 knots or 39 to 73 mph are expected due to a tropical storm within 36 hours. 
According to NWS’ latest briefing as of 5 p.m. Sept. 4, “Hermine’s track continues to push slightly to the east. This will allow for a further downward trend in the tidal departures over the next several tidal cycles. We now anticipate Monday morning and Monday evening’s high tides to be the most problematic. Minor tidal flooding is expected for tonight’s high tide with moderate flooding expected with Monday’s high tide cycles and minor to possibly moderate on Tuesday morning. With Hermine sitting slightly further east, the tropical storm force sustained winds look more likely to remain offshore. However, we are still expecting to have wind gusts up to 45 mph, mainly along the coast.” 
Likely hazards, according to NWS:
Coastal Flooding/Beach Erosion: Significant Impact. Generally minor flooding is expected with tonight’s high tide. Widespread moderate flooding is now expected with the Monday morning and the Monday evening high tides. Minor to moderate flooding is now possible with the Tuesday morning high tide. Given multiple rounds of tidal flooding, water in the back bays will have a hard time draining between tidal cycles, which should lead to prolonged and significant flooding in these locations. Additionally, there could still be minor to near moderate tidal flooding into the upper portions of Delaware Bay and the tidal Delaware River, including Philadelphia. Park your car in areas not usually affected by flooding. Access roads into and out of the barrier islands will be cut off in some areas. Significant beach erosion is also expected due to the large wave action over the course of the next few days.
Strong Winds: Limited Impact. Sustained winds of 15 to 30 mph with winds gusts up to 45 mph are expected tonight through Monday, mainly along the immediate coast and nearby inland communities. Winds are expected to diminish on Tuesday.
Rip Current Risk: High Impact. Moderate to high risk through at least Labor Day, and may continue through Tuesday. Beach goers should only enter the water if lifeguards are present, and as conditions worsen are urged to stay out of the water. High and dangerous surf is expected.
View the latest briefing here.
NWS will release their next briefing by 9 a.m. Sept. 5.
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Be sure to continue to monitor NWS’ latest forecasts for updated information at http://www.weather.gov/phi/.