Days of pounding waves and near-record tidal flooding during September’s nor’easter have led New Jersey to seek federal disaster aid for Monmouth, Atlantic and Cape May counties.
Gov. Mikie Sherrill requested a major disaster declaration from President Donald Trump on Oct. 26. The governor’s office reported nearly $27 million in FEMA-validated preliminary damage:
- Cape May County: $13,779,935
- Monmouth County: $8,469,403
- Atlantic County: $4,726,699
“We are working to ensure our coastal communities have the resources they need to recover from the September Nor’easter,” Sherrill said.
The storm’s staying power made it especially damaging. Days of northeast winds pushed ocean water into bays. Water could not fully drain between tides, leaving communities vulnerable to each new rise.
Saturday morning, Sept. 26, brought widespread major tidal flooding. ShorelySafe Vice President PJ Hondros’ analysis found that 13 Shore gauges recorded water levels among their five highest in available records. Tuckerton and Ship Bottom each reached their second-highest level.
Reporting from Highlands, meteorologist Joe Martucci, Cup A Joe Weather’s founder, documented widespread flooding. His coverage described nearly every street bayward of Bay Avenue underwater, extending roughly four blocks inland.
In Avon, Martucci documented an eight-foot sand cliff left by beach erosion.
The state seeks reimbursement for eligible storm costs and funding to reduce future damage. Sherrill called for federal support “so these communities can rebuild.”
Know More: How a declaration becomes disaster funding
FEMA reviews the governor’s request and recommends action to the president, who decides whether to approve a major disaster declaration. Approval identifies the counties and assistance programs covered.
For Public Assistance, eligible governments and certain nonprofits then apply through the state. Applicants document damage, repair needs, contracts and costs. FEMA reviews project eligibility and costs before committing federal funding.
NJOEM administers payments to approved applicants under grant rules. Reimbursement requests and progress reports help move funding from approval to payment as work proceeds.
The nearly $27 million supports the disaster request; it is not an approved payout. Final awards depend on eligible projects and costs. Hazard mitigation projects require separate applications and review.
