Philadelphia Coast: Flooding Risk Builds Wednesday

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Coastal flooding and dangerous surf will build through Friday as Wednesday winds gust to 35 mph inland and 45 mph along the coast.

According to the National Weather Service in Philadelphia/Mount Holly, multiple rounds of tidal flooding are expected this week along portions of the Atlantic coast, Delaware Bay, southern Raritan Bay and the tidal Delaware River.

Minor flooding is expected to begin with Tuesday afternoon and evening's high-tide cycle. Moderate coastal flooding could develop with Wednesday afternoon's high tide. Back bays face the most significant impacts, including Barnegat Bay and the Shrewsbury River in New Jersey and the Indian River Bay in Delaware.

Northeast winds will strengthen, peaking Wednesday. Gusts could reach 20 to 35 mph inland and up to 45 mph along the coast. A Wind Advisory is in effect Wednesday for the Atlantic coasts of New Jersey and Delaware.

Gale conditions are expected on coastal waters from Tuesday night through Thursday and could persist into Friday or Saturday.

Beach conditions will also become increasingly hazardous. The Weather Service expects a high risk of rip currents through Friday, while a High Surf Advisory remains in effect through Friday. Beach erosion is likely.

Rain showers Tuesday morning will shift south and diminish as the day progresses, with cloudy skies and highs in the 60s. Additional periods of coastal rain are possible this week.

Residents in flood-prone coastal and back-bay communities should monitor local conditions around high tide. The combination of tidal flooding, strong winds and dangerous surf will remain a concern through the end of the week.