Belmar: Lakes Pumped, Emergency Declared, Streets Closed

The borough of Belmar undertook steps to help mitigate flood waters from the rapidly approaching Hurricane Irene.

Public Works crews pumped water from both Silver Lake and Lake Como back into the ocean. The hope is that when the rains and tidal surge come, the lakes will act as catch basins and keep water off the street.

Residents throughout the borough are under a voluntary evacuation and have been urged by authorities to not attempt to ride out the storm. Residents of certain neighborhoods including 17th Avenue south to North Boulevard are under orders for mandatory evacuation.

In a Code Red Alert sent out by the borough Friday night, Mayor Matt Doherty declared a state of emergency throughout the borough.

The mayor's statement appears below, verbatim:

This is Mayor Matt Doherty with a code red regarding Hurricane Irene.

I am calling to assure you that the borough of Belmar and the Office of Emergency Management are prepared for Hurricane Irene, however we need your assistance to ensure everyone’s safety, so please listen carefully to the following message.

We are declaring a state of emergency and advising voluntary evacuation for all Belmar residents. A mandatory evacuation is in place for all residents living on 17th Avenue south to North Boulevard.

In addition, a curfew will begin at 6 p.m. on Saturday ending at 6 a.m. on Monday. All businesses are required to close at 6 p.m. on Saturday as well. 

If you are unable to leave and need other shelter please go to the Belmar Elementary School. Starting at 9 a.m. Saturday morning. You will be transported by bus to Wall Township High School. Bring medication, blankets, pillows and toiletries. If you have pets you may take them to Wall High School, but you must drive yourself. Pets will not be allowed on the bus. Please take this storm seriously and do what is best for the safety of you and your family.

on the Jersey Shore Saturday evening and bring surging water, heavy rains and blinding winds.

for the storm by stocking up on groceries and supplies.

and to evacuate Shore areas.

Patch.com has compiled a list of and .

Check back frequently for updates on Hurricane Irene.