For Immediate Release
September 28, 2026

Commissioner Director provides second update regarding Nor’easter impacting Monmouth County

FREEHOLD, NJ – Monmouth County Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone released a second storm update.

In response to the Nor’easter this weekend, my fellow Commissioners and I are reminding residents to stay safe as recovery and cleanup efforts begin and to allow space for first responders, utility crews, and cleanup crews to safely perform their work.

Many roads in low-lying areas remain closed due to flooding. Please follow all posted detours and the instructions of first responders in the area. We are reminding residents that floodwater may contain sewage, bacteria, and other harmful substances, while standing water and wet materials can lead to mold and unhealthy conditions inside the home. Avoid floodwater and damaged structures whenever possible and assume downed power lines are energized. Have electricity safely shut off by a qualified professional before entering flooded areas. Wear appropriate protective equipment, use caution with cleanup tools and equipment, promptly dry and disinfect affected materials, discard anything that cannot be safely cleaned, and document damage with photos and videos before cleanup when it is safe to do so.

The Monmouth County Park System is also experiencing scheduling changes due to the weather. Bel-Aire, Shark River, and Howell golf courses are closed due to standing water, while the remaining courses will open midday today. The Henry Hudson Trail along the Bayshore in Atlantic Highlands is closed due to debris and erosion. All other parks are open, although the Park System continues to assess downed trees along the trails. For the most up-to-date information, please visit monmouthcountyparks.com or call (732) 842-4000.

I have also remained in constant contact with JCP&L regarding residents who remain without power. I want to commend JCP&L and the crews on the ground for their response and coordination with Monmouth County and our municipalities. Their teams are working around the clock to address damage, clear hazards and restore service as safely and quickly as possible. Residents should report outages by texting “OUT” to 544487, calling 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877), or visiting the JCP&L website. I will continue to engage with JCP&L until every resident’s power is restored.

Following a storm and power outage, check refrigerated and frozen food carefully before consuming it. Discard perishable refrigerated food if the refrigerator was above 40°F for 4 hours or longer, as well as any food that came into contact with floodwater, damaged cans, or packaging that cannot be safely disinfected. Never rely on taste, smell, or appearance to determine whether food is safe. If you are questioning whether the food is safe to eat, throw it out to avoid potential illness.

Please continue to use caution, stay alert, and follow the instructions of first responders. In case of an emergency, call 9-1-1.

I want to thank all of our first responders, County staff, utility crews, and cleanup crews who are working hard to keep Monmouth County safe and help our communities recover from the storm.

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