Next High Tide at 12:53 p.m., More Flooding Expected

OCEAN CITY, MD – (October 3, 2015): Ocean City’s downtown area appears to be holding up, despite significant flooding and strong sustained winds. While minimal damage has been reported at this time, high tidal cycles are expected to continue bringing moderate flooding to Ocean City’s low-lying areas.

The weekend forecast includes light rain, heavy surf and minor beach erosion. Sustained winds of approximately 25-35 mph are expected, with gusts up to 45 mph. Winds should subside by Sunday night, however; minor to moderate flooding could last throughout next week. No power outages have been experienced today; however; additional outages are possible during high tide cycles.

The Inlet Parking Lot and the beach remain closed to the public until further notice. In addition, various streets in Ocean City, specifically in the downtown area, may close due to impassible roadways at high tide.

Hurricane Joaquin continues to track east, impacting Ocean City during high tide on Sunday and Monday. Minimal effects from the hurricane are expected for our area.

Before, during and after the storm, the Town of Ocean City will be posting storm related information on various websites, social media outlets and through the Emergency Alert system. The next update is expected to be before 5 p.m. today, Saturday, October 3.

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In an effort to keep citizens informed with the most updated and accurate information, the Town of Ocean City will be posting storm related information on the following outlets:

• City Wide Emergency Alerts: Citizens can sign up for emergency alerts by visiting: http://oceancitymd.gov/enews and subscribing to “City Wide Emergency Alerts.” 
• Town of Ocean City Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TownOfOceanCity
• Town of Ocean City Twitter: @townofoceancity
• Town of Ocean City website: www.oceancitymd.gov
• FM Advisory Radio Station – 99.5
• Town of Ocean City Access Channels 4 & 15
• Emergency Management Hotline: 410-723-6666

The Town of Ocean City’s Emergency Services personnel will be working closely with local and state representatives to provide citizens with timely, accurate and essential information before, during and after the storm. Citizens are encouraged to Know Your Zone and be prepared for any impact the storm may have on Ocean City. For more information regarding storm preparedness, please visit: http://www.ready.gov/hurricanes.

11:35 a.m.
Joaquin - 6