Asbury sees lake overflow, downed trees after Sandy
Boardwalk closed to public; 7 p.m. curfew in effect until further notice
In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, Asbury Park is experiencing some residual overflow from its three lakes, downed trees and power lines, and widespread power outages. Ocean water reportedly extended to Norwood Avenue, about three blocks west of the boardwalk.
A photo album of the aftermath can be seen by clicking here.
The city has declared a state of emergency according to its website, and the boardwalk area is closed. A citywide curfew is in effect beginning at 7 p.m. each night until further notice.
According to Jersey Central Power & Light, 5,821 are without power in Asbury Park. 13,419 are without power in Neptune; 12,629 in Ocean; 488 in Allenhurst; 407 in Interlaken; and 162 in Loch Arbour.
“Preliminary estimates indicate the possibility for lengthy outages in the storm’s wake,” according to JCP&L. “Crews are assessing the situation and will begin service restoration work as soon as it’s safe to do so.”
Deal Lake and Sunset Lake are still moderately spilling into surrounding streets. Wesley Lake has receded into its banks.
The boardwalk appears to have sustained heavy damage but is not open to the public at this time.
Mayor Ed Johnson issued a storm message on the city’s website. Here it is in full:
First, I would like to thank the residents of Asbury Park for their extraordinary efforts and cooperation in preparing for and during Hurricane Sandy. Asbury Park, as well as the neighboring communities of the Jersey Shore, has experienced a weather event of unprecedented proportions. As a result, we have sustained severe damage, flooding and power outages across the city.
While the storm moves out of our area, our concern for public safety continues. Our immediate priority is to aid those in need of emergency assistance and to restore safe conditions where urgently needed. Please be aware that while the major portion of the storm may have departed our area, there is still concern regarding downed power lines, fallen or weakened trees and limbs and compromised structural conditions that may exist. All residents are urged to proceed cautiously and to report any unsafe conditions immediately.
The Boardwalk area is closed. Please stay away and out of the way of emergency personnel. A curfew is in effect beginning at 7:00pm each evening until further notice. At that time, all businesses should close and no one is allowed out in any public areas, anywhere in Asbury Park.
The restoration of power to all residents and businesses and returning people to their homes is one of our primary concerns as we emerge from the impact of Hurricane Sandy. Please know that the Municipal Government of Asbury Park is fully functioning and working with our local utilities, the county and the state of New Jersey to address post storm concerns and conditions. I ask for your patience! I also ask all residents of Asbury Park to work with us by remaining calm, following the directions of the office of emergency management officials as they are issued and remaining in a safe location as storm recovery efforts get underway.