Rolling fog…brisk winds…a glimmer of sunshine…and then more fog.
On the island, the temperatures did not meet the balmy 60 degree mark enjoyed “off shore”. Â Today reminds me of our typical spring weather – a winter coat needed to walk along the beach, and only a light wind breaker to run out to the Acme 🙂
Interesting article in today’s Press of Atlantic City: Â incorporating the new FEMA regulations from the perspective of the local architects. Â Click here to read
Elected officials in shore towns are voicing their concerns regarding these changes.  The financial burden of property owners, and practical implementation of  the new building codes are two key issues.
For a link to the FEMA web site: Click here
Will update as I know more…
Snow earlier (enough to coat the ground and hide the icy patches as I walked!), then steady rain (not enough to rinse the salt off my car), a few breaks of sunshine, and now clouds. Â The temperatures are improving finally, too.
UPDATE: I published the post below on 12/16/12, and in the meantime, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie issued an executive order approving the new FEMA maps- therefore requiring all municipalities to follow the guidelines until further notice. Â I am happy to answer your questions (to the best of my ability) regarding these changes.
FEMA recently modified the flood zone designations and building height requirements for our area. These determinations were made prior to Sandy, yet are relevant as home owners look to renovate or rebuild their low lying structures.
Prior to the changes, it was rare to see a “V” (high velocity) zone classification in Avalon or Stone Harbor (typically limited to the inlet/ocean). Now, much of the bay area falls under the “V” classification, too.
Click on the interactive FEMA Website and enter your shore property address.  The results will display the proposed flood zone and building height requirements.
Quote from The Press of Atlantic City, Sunday 12/16/12:
“While these maps were released as information only, with final maps expected sometime this summer, municipalities can adopt the data into their zoning codes, said Ryan Pietramali, risk analysis branch chief for FEMA, on Friday. That could mean homeowners whose houses suffered damage during Sandy that totaled at least 50 percent of the building’s value may be forced to rebuild to new building codes, such as raising houses and rebuilding on driven piling”.
Just enough…and will be replaced with warmer temperatures (finally) later this week!
The smaller tidal channels are frozen, however as of this morning, the bay areas with moving water are…still moving. Â That’s good news for the bay front owners worried about ice around their pilings and docks. Â This weather also creates a concern for frozen pipes- worthwhile to check on your shore house to make sure the heat setting is adequate, and all crawl space vents are closed. Â If your outside water was never shut off/drained, it definitely IS frozen now. Â Ask your plumber to check if you are concerned.
Winter survival tip: Â think about summer days on the water!
Attending the Atlantic City Boat Show might help, too.  February 6th through the 10th (indoors at the convention center).
A quick overview provided by the PR representative, Samantha Treacy:
“It’s a great stop for boating enthusiasts and families looking for an affordable and fun day. Visitors can climb aboard and compare hundreds of boats for all budgets and lifestyles and shop deals on the latest marine gadgets and gear. There will also be a variety of attractions for all ages, including the new Swapmaster Gator Show, the chance to meet Captain Dave Marciano from National Geographic Channel’s Wicked Tuna, a Kid’s Boating mini lake and a Patrick the Star meet and greet.”  For additional detail, visit the Atlantic City Boat Show website.
Samantha will provide passes to the first 2 people who comment on this post. Â I will send along the names and the tickets will be held for you at the Will Call booth during the show.
The cure for an annoying winter cold…sunshine, and deep breaths of salt air! Â Grateful for a long walk this morning before the REALLY cold air arrives.
The wind has picked up, but the temperatures are still mild (for January). Â Missing my regular beach walks due to a combination of bad weather, and feeling under the weather. Â Good to be back out this morning…
Back to the Beach
Spent the long weekend in the mountains of North Carolina visiting family.  Like here, there were 2 snow storms. Plus, real hills for sledding!
Our 5 year old grandson enjoys making fun of my accent- Â especially the word “wooder”. Â He asked me several times how to say something in “my language”! Â Ouch…
While sledding, my grandson and I crashed and tumbled in the snow. Â He said later that he didn’t mean to crash into me- that he would never do that because “you are an old lady, and my friend”. Â Ouch…ouch!
So, back to sea level…walking on the beach…and looking at the “wooder” Â 🙂