Jersey Shore prepares for nor’easter as high winds, significant beach erosion expected

SEA BRIGHT, New Jersey (WABC) -- Residents and officials along the Jersey Shore are preparing for a powerful nor'easter expected to bring strong winds, rain, coastal flooding and beach erosion through the weekend.

Most of the daytime hours Friday are expected to remain dry but windy, with gusts approaching 40 mph. The first pockets of rain are expected to arrive south and east of New York City late Friday afternoon, with rain reaching the city area in the evening.

The first wave of rain is not expected to be heavy.

Along the Jersey Shore, impacts from the storm have already begun, with gusty winds, coastal flooding and erosion along area beaches.

In Ocean City, waves have already been pounding the shore and washing away sand ahead of the storm, raising concerns about significant beach erosion as conditions worsen.

Residents have been preparing ahead of the rain, with many planning to move their cars to higher ground because of flooding concerns.

Officials along the coast are also taking precautions.

In Sea Bright, the mayor says officials are taking all precautions, but the borough is surrounded by water, meaning strong winds, rain and the tides could cause problems, especially as water builds up in the back bay and Shrewsbury River.

Flooding is often seen in the center of town and on side streets.