UPDATE: Watches, Warnings Issued As Nor'easter Bears Down On Shore

New Jersey's coastal areas were under multiple severe weather advisories Wednesday as a powerful nor'easter enters the region.

A coastal flood warning, wind advisory and winter storm watch were in effect, as well as a storm warning for offshore waters.

Several municipalities, including Brick, Toms River, Point Pleasant Boro, Waretown, Atlantic City, Ocean City and Barnegat were warning residents of barrier islands and low-lying areas to get to out of harm's way and move their vehicles to higher ground.

Widespread minor tidal flooding with spotty moderate flooding was predicted at times of high tide Wednesday, the National Weather Service (NWS) office in Mount Holly said. Thursday's high tide periods were forecast to be more severe, with widespread moderate flooding and spotty major flooding in certain areas.

"Back bays and tidal tributaries may have a difficult time draining into Friday," the advisory said.

Forecasters were also calling for winds of 30 to 40 m.p.h. with gusts to 60 m.p.h. in coastal areas. The entire coastal area was under a high wind warning until 5 a.m. Thursday.

In the ocean, 8 to 15 foot waves were predicted as part of the storm warning issued by the NWS.

A winter storm watch called for 3 to 5 inches of snow, with a morning mix Wednesday, changing to rain, but then back to snow Wednesday night. "Slushy accumulations" were expected, the watch said, though temperatures above freezing would help keep treated road surfaces clear.

The storm is forecast to move out of the region after 9 a.m. Thursday, giving way to clouds that will likely stick around through much of Friday, with occasional chances of rain or snow showers.