Most Damage in Southern New Jersey
Point Pleasant was spared the worst of the damage, although many southern areas of the state did not fare as well. In the Cape May area, residents reported major flooding that was reminiscent of Superstorm Sandy. Streets were filled with ice-topped water which threatened homes and vehicles. However, in Point Pleasant, even though there were high winds, extremely high surf and blowing snow, very little damage was reported.
Minor Flooding
Police Chief Kevin R. O’Hara said that there were no reports of structural damage and minimal tidal flooding in the area. There were reports of minor flooding in low-lying areas that often flood during bad weather. In addition, there were scattered power outages, but none that lasted a significant amount of time. Jersey Central Power & Light were able to return power to those areas within a few hours. Warming centers were opened to provide those out of power for an extensive period with a place to find heat, but they were unnecessary in the Point Pleasant area.
Southern New Jersey Damage
Flooding in the southern area of the state began to subside on Sunday afternoon. The worst of the flooding occurred on Saturday morning, leaving roads impassable and beaches eroded. Great Channel and Stone Harbor both broke flood records that were set during Superstorm Sandy as did Cape May. High tide at Cape May Harbor registered at 9.26 feet, higher than the record set during Sandy of 8.67 feet. Utility companies reported that 12,000 customers were still without power late Sunday afternoon but were able to restore the majority of those by Monday afternoon.
About Winter Storm Jonas
Winter Storm Jonas developed as a shortwave trough before consolidating with a low-pressure area over Texas. The developing storm was anticipated by many weather forecasters as much as a week in advance, leading to speculation that the storm would be much less powerful than predicted. The shortwave trough, which developed in the Pacific northwest, came on land on January 19, gaining strength as it moved through the Great Plains. Initially, forecasters believed that a sharp edge of precipitation would keep snow totals low along the Eastern coastline. However, as the storm moved northward, strengthening rapidly, it was apparent that snowfall totals would be significantly higher. However, along the coast, it was not so much the snow that caused significant problems, but the wind, which caused storm surges all along the Eastern seaboard. Travel restrictions remained in place in some areas as late as Monday.
During hazardous weather, it is always best to remain home and avoid dangerous roadways. However, when you cannot due to work or other obligations, contact Taxi and Car Service to help you get safely to and from your destination. Our drivers are experienced in all types of weather and will be sure you arrive safely. Call us today or find us online to schedule your next trip.
For all of your travel needs, call Exclusive Taxi and Car Service at 732-350-8294, or visit us on the web at www.exclusivetaxiandcarservice.com