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Crime & Safety

Toms River Urges Residents to Monitor Possible Severe Weather Conditions

Flooding possible, Office of Emergency Management message warns

Toms River emergency officials are warning residents to take precautions as possible severe thunderstorms roll through the area Thursday. 

A Nixle alert message sent by the township's Office of Emergency Management urges residents to monitor weather updates and avoid driving through flood waters should they occur. 

The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for the region, including Ocean County and its coastal areas, through Thursday night. Heavy rain has already begun falling in the area as of Thursday morning. 

Find out what's happening in Toms Riverwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The NJ Office of Emergency Management (NJOEM) is monitoring a low pressure and severe storm system, which is expected to impact the state Thursday and Friday, bringing with it heavy rain, high winds in some areas, and potential flooding. 

"Use caution while driving and stay indoors during storms," the alert reads in part. 

Find out what's happening in Toms Riverwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Depending on the ultimate track of a warm front, different parts of New Jersey could see heavy rain (3 inches or more is possible), a tornado threat, or severe thunderstorms Thursday, 

"This is a complex storm, and a complex forecast due to the amount of rain we've recently experienced," said Colonel Rick Fuentes, State Police Superintendent and Director of the state Office of Emergency Management.

Fuentes said the state is monitoring the situation "with our partners from the National Weather Service and the County Offices of Emergency Management."

A small chance of showers continues on Friday, but the sun is expected to return for the weekend.

"Be especially careful if you are on the road," Fuentes said. "We also remind drivers not to drive through ponded or standing water, on roads impacted by heavy rain. Those who live in river communities should be aware of the potential for flooding, and follow instructions if given by local emergency officials.”

Toms River residents can connect with the township's Nixle system to receive emergency updates here

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