Jersey Shore HURRICANE SEASON: QUICK TIPS FOR VISITORS
Hurricane Season: Quick Tips for Visitors
The Jersey Shore is known for its peaceful beaches and charming coastal towns - perfect for a relaxing getaway. But being right on the Atlantic also means we’re more vulnerable to tropical weather. June 1 to November 30 is hurricane season, with peak activity occuring from mid-August through late October. Stay ahead of any storm with these helpful tips and resources.
Trip Insurance: Your First Line of Defense
We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance when you book your stay. It can protect your vacation investment if a hurricane or other natural disaster leads to a mandatory evacuation.
A quick note - if a storm has already been named in the Atlantic at the time of your booking, it’s too late to add this coverage. Booking early and adding insurance right away ensures you’re protected.
Stay Informed and Stay Safe
If a tropical system or storm develops, be sure to tune in for official updates from the National Hurricane Center. Many storms, including some winter nor’easters, won’t require evacuation, but conditions can still be dangerous.
Even if the worst of the weather stays offshore, it can cause life-threatening rip currents, rough surf, and ocean overwash.
What’s the Difference Between a Watch and a Warning ?
A tropical storm or hurricane warning is issued when hazardous weather conditions are likely or imminent for a location. A warning is issued when tropical storm or hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours. This is when it’s time to take action to prepare for the impending storm.
What Happens if There’s an Evacuation?
.
- Ocean County includes the towns and villages Seaside Heights, Seaside Park, Point Pleasant Beach, Lavallette, Mantoloking, Bay Head, and Surf City. Long Beach Island (LBI) also contains several towns, such as Beach Haven, Ship Bottom, and Barnegat Light.
- Each county makes their own independent determination regarding evacuation and re-entry. If local officials determine a storm is a serious threat, a mandatory evacuation will be issued.
- Guests in Ocean County should watch for updates from Ocean County Emergency Management if you’re a Arthur Rue Agency guest, we’ll send you updates on pertinent storm details and local announcements. Leaving as soon as possible when an evacuation is ordered can save you a significant amount of time in traffic. Hitting the road quickly is also important because conditions can change rapidly. Roads may close or become impassable, flooding can occur, and storm surge may make structures and travel unsafe. Staying behind can mean no access to emergency services, power, supplies or safe roads.
When is it Safe to Return?
Re-entry after a storm has passed follows a staged schedule, with initial access granted to essential personnel, followed by permanent residents and essential personnel of critical businesses. Priority 3 is non-resident property owners and non-resident employees of non-critical business. Lastly, the general public will be welcome to return to the beach. Permits are issued for priority 1-3, where priority 4 (general public and visitors) does not require a permit. Visit the Ocean County Emergency Management for details on re-entry.
By planning ahead and adding trip insurance, you can enjoy the beauty of the Jersey Shores even during hurricane season, knowing you’re ready for whatever Mother Nature sends our way.
Enjoy this blog post? Click here to subscribe for updates

Leave A Comment