Storm Surge in Pennsylvania, December 11, 2003

The combination of runoff from the heavy rain during the first half of the day on the 11th, higher than normal tides from the recent full moon and a southeasterly flow into Delaware Bay and the Delaware River caused tidal flooding along the Delaware River and tidal sections of its tributaries during the afternoon. The incoming afternoon tide also slowed the discharge from the inland rivers and streams, many of which were flooding. The tide on the Delaware River in Burlington (Burlington County, New Jersey) reached 10.37 feet above mean lower low water. Minor tidal flooding begins at 9.0 feet. In Philadelphia, the tide on the Delaware River reached 8.73 feet above mean lower low water. Minor tidal flooding begins at 8.2 feet. The low pressure system passed near Philadelphia during the morning of the 11th and a south to southeast flow preceded the low pressure system.