Coastal communities across New Jersey, Delaware, and southeastern Pennsylvania — including Philadelphia — are under a Coastal Flood Advisory as northeast winds push seawater inland. The National Weather Service in Mount Holly warns that minor tidal flooding is expected to peak during Wednesday’s high tide cycles, with the potential for flooding to continue into Thursday if winds stay strong.
Areas at Risk of Tidal Flooding
Communities under the advisory include:
Philadelphia and Wilmington along the tidal Delaware River
Atlantic City, Cape May, and Long Branch along the Jersey Shore
Lewes to Bethany Beach along the Delaware coast
In these areas, water levels may briefly rise high enough to cover roads, especially in low-lying neighborhoods and shore towns. Late Tuesday night into Wednesday is expected to be the highest risk period.
Dangerous Surf and Rip Current Warnings
In addition to flooding, beachgoers are being warned about very dangerous surf conditions. A high risk of rip currents is in effect for the Atlantic coastline:
From Sandy Hook to Cape May (NJ)
From Lewes to Bethany Beach (DE)
Lifeguards and officials are urging the public to stay out of the ocean until surf conditions improve.
Flood-Prone Roads and Travel Impact
Certain roads may become temporarily impassable due to tidal flooding. These include:
Route 47 near Wildwood
Roads near the Christina and Brandywine Rivers in Delaware
Riverbank areas in Philadelphia and Wilmington
Travelers should avoid driving through standing water, even during shallow floods, and seek alternate routes.
Safety Tips for Residents and Visitors
To stay safe during this tidal flooding event:
Avoid flood-prone roads during high tide hours
Secure outdoor items that could be damaged or swept away
Stay informed with weather alerts and tide schedules
Don’t swim in ocean waters until rip current risks decrease
If winds remain strong into Thursday, expect additional flooding concerns during high tides.
5-Day Weather Snapshot for the Philadelphia Area
| Day | Conditions | High (°F) | Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuesday Night | Breezy, increasing tides | — | 64–68 |
| Wednesday | Coastal Flood Advisory, breezy winds | 74–78 | 63–67 |
| Thursday | Lingering tidal risk, mostly cloudy | 72–76 | 60–65 |
| Friday | Drier, partly sunny | 75–80 | 58–63 |
| Saturday | Mild, mostly sunny | 76–82 | 60–64 |
