By Veronica Flesher, Patch Staff, Updated Thu, Aug 21, 2025 at 2:23 pm ET
Gov. Phil Murphy has declared a State of Emergency for all of New Jersey on Thursday as Hurricane Erin makes its closest pass, bringing 17-foot waves, major coastal flooding to parts of the shore, life-threatening rip currents, and eroding beaches.
This went into effect at 2 p.m.
“Over the past couple of days, we have seen the effects of Hurricane Erin along the Jersey Shore in the form of dangerous rip tides. Today and tomorrow will be no exception,” Murphy said. “As the storm moves past New Jersey over the next 24 hours, we are expecting high surf and rip currents, coastal and flash flooding, and a high erosion risk in parts of the state. We ask all New Jerseyans to monitor local weather forecasts and warnings and stay informed on evacuation protocols, especially if you’re down the Shore.”
Murphy encouraged residents to visit ready.nj.gov for important weather updates and safety information. Those in affected areas are asked to be mindful of evacuation routes.
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