Tropical Storm Ophelia Set to Hit Hoboken: Precautions and Advisories in Place
HOBOKEN, Hudson County – The City of Hoboken, in collaboration with the Hoboken Public Safety Department and the Office of Emergency Management, is actively monitoring the impending Tropical Storm Ophelia, which is forecasted to affect the region this weekend.
Originating off the Carolina coast, Ophelia is anticipated to unleash heavy downpours, thunderstorms, and robust wind gusts from early Saturday morning to Sunday evening. The most intense rainfall is projected for Saturday, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. According to the National Weather Service, the storm could accumulate rainfall totals ranging from 2 to 3 inches by Sunday night, with some areas possibly receiving even more. Wind gusts in Hoboken might reach speeds of up to 40 mph, leading to potential flooding scenarios. Residents are urged to refrain from driving during peak rainfall times.
Flood Advisory Issued
A flood advisory has been declared for Hudson County, effective from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. Intense rainfall, surpassing 0.8 inches per hour, could inundate low-lying regions. To ensure public safety, barricades will be stationed at flood-sensitive intersections. Residents are strongly advised against navigating through barricaded or inundated zones. For reporting flooded intersections or blocked drains, the NHSA Hotline is available at (866) 689-3970.
Parking Measures Implemented
In anticipation of the storm and potential flooding, temporary no-parking signs have been erected in vulnerable areas. While towing will not be enforced, residents are advised to relocate their vehicles. As a relief measure, the City has introduced a discounted parking rate of $5 for a 24-hour duration at Garages B (28 Second St.) and D (215 Hudson St.) for eligible residents. This offer is valid from 8 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 23, to 8 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 25. Additionally, residents with disabilities can avail of this reduced rate at the Midtown Garage (371 Fourth St.). However, availability is based on a first-come, first-served principle.
Safety Precautions
Citizens are reminded to secure or store any loose outdoor items, especially those on balconies. The storm’s damaging winds have the potential to uproot trees and disrupt power lines, causing power outages. Power disruptions and fallen wires should be reported to PSEG at their official website.
Event Cancellations
Due to the storm, all City recreational activities and the Senior HOP bus trip scheduled for Saturday to Secaucus have been called off. Updates regarding Sunday’s events will be provided on Saturday.
Stay Updated
The City urges residents to stay updated by monitoring local forecasts and following official social media channels, including the Hoboken OEM Twitter page (@HobokenOEM) and the City’s Twitter (@CityofHoboken) and Facebook pages. For real-time updates, residents can also register on the Nixle System. As the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season is ongoing until November 30, residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with emergency plans and resources available on the “Hoboken Ready” website.
