Flooding Information
Why Does Hoboken Flood?
Hoboken was once an island, with tidal lands to the west. Today, some areas of Hoboken still lie near or below sea level. When heavy rain coincides with a high tide of the Hudson River, water cannot drain into the river, causing some streets to flood. A flood pump was recently completed by the North Hudson Sewerage Authority which will allow for expelling water into the river, and it is expected to alleviate, although not eliminate, flooding.
Residents parked on the street during the day are encouraged to monitor weather reports and move vehicles from flood-prone areas if there is the potential for flooding. Vehicles in these areas can suffer severe damage as a result of flooding.
Below is a tide chart for the Hudson River just north of Hoboken (Weehawken) and a map of typical storm flood zones and street barricade locations. The chart indicates the times for low and high tide.
The map to the right indicates areas that most frequently flood during heavy rains during high tide as well as common locations of barricades used to close streets. Actual flooding will depend on the weather and other conditions and may include other areas not included below.
Residents concerned about potential overnight flooding are reminded that overnight parking from 8pm to 8am is available in Municipal Garages B and D and Midtown for $5. Regular garage fees will apply during the day. In the case that a flood warning is issued, the City of Hoboken will provide free parking in Municipal Garage B (located on 2nd Street between Hudson and River streets) and waive the $5 fee for residents in flood prone areas with a valid residency parking permit. This policy does not apply to Garages D and Midtown – only for those parked in Garage B.
Advisory Base Flood Elevations
The known flood risk has changed since the last effective community Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for many communities in New Jersey and New York. FEMA is creating Advisory Base Flood Elevations (ABFEs) to show a more current picture of flood risk for certain communities affected by Hurricane Sandy. The Advisory information can help communities better understand current flood risks and ensure structures are rebuilt stronger and safer to reduce the impact of similar events in the future.
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Request Cleanup
After flooding subsides, there may be sludge remaining on streets and sidewalks. You may use the form below to report problem areas and request cleaning. You may also call the Department of Environmental Services at 201-420-2049 or the North Hudson Sewerage Authority at 201-963-6043 to request clearing out catch basins.
Hudson River Tide Chart
