Ocean Gate Mayor Watching Storm Closely, But No Evacuations For Now

Ocean Gate Mayor Paul J. Kennedy hasn't called for either voluntary or involuntary evacuations of this small borough bordered by the Toms River and Barnegat Bay.

"If things change, we will take the appropriate action," Kennedy said.

Kennedy didn't hesistate to order mandatory evacuations last Oct. 29, before Superstorm Sandy decimated sections of Ocean Gate.

This time he's not worred about the amount or kind of precipitation expected. He's more concerned about possible damage to recently repaired homes and high winds.

"This combined with the rain will more than likely cause tidal flooding, especially at high tides," Kennedy said. "My biggest concern is for the residents who have suffered flood damage from Sandy and who have begun the process of restoring, recovering and some even back home. It's very discouraging."

Kennedy has been in contact with the Ocean County Road Department about the coming storm.

"The Ocean County road department is well aware of the warnings and have told me that they are ready," he said. "Since the majority of roads in Ocean Gate are county roads, I rely on their expertise. And they have been great throughout all the bad weather we have been experiencing."