Watch CBS News

Jersey Shore Communities Prepare For Joaquin

By Diana Rocco

TUCKERTON, N.J., (CBS) --  Many down the shore are keeping a close eye on Joaquin, watching its every move.

"It was like a bomb went off right in this neighborhood, people lost the homes," said Joe Kaufman of Tuckerton.

The images of Sandy's destruction are still fresh in the minds of all in this tiny Tuckerton beach community. Homes still untouched, abandoned after the storm or in the process of reconstruction. Homeowners say if Joaquin moves in they'll evacuate.

"You suffer such a devastating blow and the media is saying it could happen again so it's on your mind," said Kaufman.

Shoreline communities have already activated emergency management systems warning residents to take all necessary measures.

"We don't know if it's going to be an inch, we don't know if it's going to be 10 feet. We just don't know yet,"said Councilman John Schwartz of Tuckerton.

(Reporter:) "You don't want to take chances?"

"No we can't because if it hits here Sunday, Monday it's too late," said Schwartz.

When Hurricane Sandy moved in, the water came in with such force over the bulkhead that it knocked five homes clear off their pilings. Now nearly three years later, and the rebuilding process still hasn't started.

 

Tuckerton
(credit: CBS)

 

 

"I can honestly tell you I probably lost $250,000 in Sandy and not only that, there as a lot of heartache," said Eric Hansen.

At Maritime Marina, owner Eric Hansen has already started pulling boats from the water. He says Sandy taught him never to underestimate what may be headed this way.

"You can't wait until the last minute of course. We've been the last couple days trying to prepare," said Hansen.

Most have their eye on the forecast and if it looks likes Joaquin is headed this way, it will be full on preparation mode 20 hours a day, boarding homes, pulling boats and evacuating the area.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.