Voluntary Evacuation for Barrier Island Residents Issued by Township

A voluntary evacuation of barrier island homes beginning at 6 p.m. Friday has been issued by the Toms River Office of Emergency Management.

"Due to the possibility of flooding, residents of the barrier island and other low-lying areas who do not feel comfortable staying in their homes during the storm, may want to leave the area by 6 p.m. to stay with friends or family," reads a statement issued by the township Friday afternoon. 

A coastal flood warning has been issued by the National Weather Service for several areas from 4 p.m. Friday to 11 a.m. Saturday, including Ocean County. Flooding is possible at high tide Friday evening.

OEM Director Paul Daley indicated that it is "very likely" some areas in the township may flood, including land near the Barnegat Bay. Those areas have become more prone to flooding since Superstorm Sandy struck, as officials have said sand and other debris were deposited in the bay. 

Daley recommended that those in a flood-prone and low-lying areas move cars to higher ground and do not drive on flooded streets should waters rise