Brick Evacuation, Traffic Information

An evacuation of the township's barrier island setion is to be completed by 12 noon today, official said, and those who reside in low-lying, flood-prone or waterfront neighborhoods in other sections of Brick are being strongly encouraged to leave.

"Those residing in areas prone to heavy flooding or near tidal waterways are encouraged to seek shelter to higher ground," the township said in a statement. "Chances of power outages remain high due to sustained winds and rain from this storm."

In addition to the evacuation order, officials announced that no vehicular traffic other than emegency vehicles and authorized personnel will be allowed to drive in town after 11 p.m. Sunday.

Township officials began preparing for the storm Friday. On Saturday, crews could be seen erecting protective berms on the township's ocean beaches.

The evacuation order came after Gov. Chris Christie declared a state of emergency Saturday morning.

The declaration activates elements of the State Emergency Operations Plan, broadening powers of the New Jersey State Police including traffic control, limiting access and egress from impacted areas and issuing evacuation orders if needed.