Hurricane Sandy unleashed her full fury on New Jersey. The Jersey Shore, in particular, sustained severe damage, Gov. Chris Christie said in a press conference Tuesday morning.

“I know many people in our state woke up today to absolute devastation,” Christie said. “We have a long road ahead of us but I have complete confidence we’re going to come out of this better and stronger than before. This state is too tough to give in to this type of devastation.”

Christie said the biggest issues facing the state in the storm’s aftermath are the search and rescue effort and the restoration of power. He urged residents to remain off the roads.

Christie said the counties that have receiving a FEMA declaration to allow them access to immediate public assistance are: Atlantic, Cape May, Hudson, Essex, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean and Union. This list is not final and more will be added as the state makes a final damage assessment.

Search and rescue efforts are being conducted in Atlantic City, Middletown, Union Beach, Belmar, Manasquan, Moonachie and Little Ferry, Christie said.

The governor confirmed at least three deaths have been reported as a result of the storm.

He characterized the devastation to New Jersey shorelines as “unthinkable,” noting that some shore homes had been dislodged from their foundations and landed in Route 35.