Emergency Officials Ask Residents to Heed Warnings

Local officials are asking residents to please heed warnings and respect road closures.

The Matawan Office of Emergency Management issued a warning Monday evening via their Swift911 emergency alert system, urging residents to remain indoors and off of the roads.

"We are currently following the reporting guidelines issued by State and County Offices of Emergency Management regarding power outages. All residents are asked to be patient as power restoration may take seven to ten days after the high winds have subsided," OEM Coordinator Sgt. Thomas Falco said in over a Swift911 phone message. "Again, please stay indoors as there may be flying debris and downed power lines."

The Keyport Police Department also reminded residents to take safety measures Monday evening as Hurricane Sandy unleashed her strongest winds and rain on the Bayshore.

"Please stay off all roads and stay inside. Emergency crews may not be able to reach stranded people/motorists during the height of this storm. Be smart, stay inside and keep the roads clear for our emergency personnel. Power outages are anticipated and may be extended. We ask all residents to stay in their homes. Only leave if you are in immediate danger," the department wrote on their Facebook.