Over the last few days the weather hasn't been exactly the kind that we would witness in Cape May county in May and certainly not easyliving kind of weather, but nevertheless, the oddest storm to hit the coast came howling in last night rather unexpectedly.

Bridges closed, streets were flooded, people were stuck and the state went into an emergency status.

Throughout the day we have been monitoring the weather conditions from Wildwood - it's not pretty. Stay inside and wait the storm out, there is no reason to hit the streets unless you are a duck. If you require emergency services, contact your local police department.

How to plan for future storms

What the city should do: Issue evacuation orders 48 hours before the storm hits, urging people in vulnerable zones to flee those areas by public transportation or their cars.

Worst-case scenario: A storm closes in on the city faster than expected. Evacuees are stuck in cars on closed roads. Though a death toll would likely be low, damage could be extensive.

What you can do: Keep three days’ worth of food, water, diapers, medication, and other supplies in a safe place. If you’re in a hurricane zone, buy flood insurance and snap photos of your house for future reference. Keep a prescription stash handy and pack a bag with copies of important documents, extra keys, rain gear and shoes, nonperishable foods, and at least $100.

As the storm approaches, nail plywood over windows and bring deck and patio furniture and garbage cans inside. If you’re evacuating, unplug appliances, turn off pilot lights and water, and put valuables you can’t take along in watertight containers. Fill your tank, grab a map, and get out of town—with your pets.