Watch CBS News

Rainfall Causes Flooding Concerns In Parts Of New Jersey

MANASQUAN, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- On and off rainfall is causing flooding concerns in low-lying areas along the Jersey shore.

In Manasquan, minor flooding Monday was seen on Third Avenue just off Brielle Road, near the Glimmer Glass, a marshy area where the ocean meets the Manasquan River and causes minor flooding during heavy downpours.

CHECK THE FORECAST

Meanwhile, many residents are hoping their barbecues and beach days do not get washed out for the unofficial start of summer this Friday.

"We're hoping it clears up for the weekend," fisherman Lee Dunkin said.

Jack Zito's family owns a restaurant in town and is looking for a strong start to the summer season.

"My family owns Surf Shack Daily, and rain and stuff never helps out," Zito said.

Mayor Ed Donovan said the rain this week will not stop beach preps, but it may slow it down.

In Seaside Heights on Monday, only the die-hards braved the cold, soggy weather for their daily walk on the boardwalk.

"Another rainy day at the shore. We don't need it. We need a better a tourist season than last year," said Pete Drescher, who lives on Sherman Avenue, bay side, told CBS2's Meg Baker.

"My street's flooded, hence the boots. Yeah, no big deal," he added.

Others were more concerned about the steady rain. Maruca's Tomato Pies only sold one slice at lunchtime.

"Couldn't be worse," its owner said. "Hoping for a good, big weekend this year. Memorial Day's tough, but this is the pits right here."

With a new roller coaster and Ferris wheel, Seaside Heights is hoping to attract a large crowd for the holiday weekend.

Quite frankly, it's better for us that Mother Nature gets it out of her system this week so that we have a really nice sunshiny weekend," said Christopher Vaz, Seaside Heights borough administrator.

Cindy, from Springfrield, said she knows where she wants to be come Friday.

"Barbecuing and sitting on the beach. A little golf, too," she said.

Meanwhile, towns along the barrier island in Toms River and Brick are keeping a watchful eye on Thursday. A new moon could affect the high tide cycles and again create some flooding issues.

That's also a concern in Manasquan.

"Manasquan is very low-lying and very flat," Donovan said. "The water doesn't drain very well."

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.