Atlantic County Declares State of Emergency

Atlantic County officials declared a State of Emergency ahead of Hurricane Sandy, effective 6 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 27, until further notice.

The storm is expected to bring heavy rain, extensive flooding and beach erosion, and sustained winds of 74 miles an hour or greater over a period of 24-48 hours.

The county also issued a coastal flood watch until midnight on Tuesday, Oct. 30; a high wind watch until 2 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 30; and a flood watch 6 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 30.

County officials are urging residents to prepare, as the storm is expected to cause extended power outages as a result of downed trees and wires. Preparations should include making arrangements to relocate should an evacuation be deemed necessary, and to prepare an emergency kit with supplies for several days, county officials said. Supplies should include: identification documents, prescription medications in labeled containers, necessary baby items and pet supplies, toiletries and change of clothes.

Should an evacuation be deemed necessary, the county will open several shelters, but they will only offer basic provisions and should be used as a last resort, county officials said. Pet-friendly shelters will only accept pets in carriers, according to county officials.

Residents who require assistance should contact their local office of emergency managament, county officials said. In Galloway, residents should contact Michael Brandenberger at 609-652-3700, ext. 206.

The county's emergency information hotline is 1-866-704-4636.