Township officials are taking precautions as a coastal storm begins to lash Ocean County, Mayor Carmen F. Amato Jr.

"We do not anticipate any accumulation of snow, just driving wind and rain," Amato said. "However, as a precaution, all of our sanding and salting trucks are ready to go."

Since Ocean County is under a coastal flood watch, Public Works employees have barricades on trucks, since flooding is expected east of Bayview Avenue in the Bayville section of the township, the mayor said.

As of 4 p.m., Bayview Avenue was still clear of water, but the tidal marshes were filling up. High tide in the back bay areas is expected later this evening.

"All of our normal public works functions are operating at 100 percent," the mayor said. "Superstorm Sandy debris pick-up will continue as well."

"We ask that those who do not need to travel, to please don't," Amato said.  "We do anticipate freezing temperatures overnight. If you need to drive, be careful and always watch out for black ice."