Seaside Heights & Seaside Park

Ragin’ Bay: Coastal Storm Whips Up Wild Waves on the Bayfront

by
Daniel Nee
March 14, 2023

A coastal storm that moved through the Jersey Shore region Tuesday brought rain and occasional snow showers throughout the day, but its impact was mainly felt by way of strong winds that whipped up Barnegat Bay and sent spray flying through the air.

The westerly nature of the winds prevented the ocean from displaying the wrath most often associated with coastal storms, but bayside flooding was apparent at times of high tide, and roads were a bit slick after sunset.

The National Weather Service said the storm is expected to move out by Wednesday morning, which will begin under mostly cloudy conditions before gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 44. It will remain breezy, with a northwest wind around 25 m.p.h., with gusts as high as 35 m.p.h.

Wind-driven waves batter the Jersey Shore on Barnegat Bay, March 14, 2023. (Photo: Daniel Nee)

The NWS marine forecast statement said small craft advisories would likely remain in effect through Thursday. Offshore, gale conditions were expected to continue through Wednesday afternoon with northwest winds around 25-30 knots and gusts 35-45 knots, with seas around 6 to 10 feet. The Gale Warning is in effect until 6 p.m. Wednesday.