Seacoast Business Prepares for Potential Nor’Easter
SEABROOK, N.H. — As New Hampshire braces for a potential Nor’easter, the Seacoast is on high alert for coastal flooding, strong currents, and high surf.
Bob Brown, owner of Brown’s Seafood in Seabrook, is no stranger to flooding. His restaurant, located near the Blackwater River and less than half a mile from the ocean, floods approximately three to four times every year.
“We’re used to it, it happens a lot,” Brown remarked. “We have people call weeks later, asking if we recovered from the flood yet. Like, we’re ready to go two hours after the tide went out.” The restaurant is equipped with trap doors that help drain water when it pools.
In 2024, a storm caused the dining room to flood to a foot and a half high in the kitchen, submerging the lobster tank. Brown recalls a past event where customers received boots to navigate through the water, which came up to 4 or 5 inches.
While Brown plans to operate as usual this weekend, other businesses and homes might face more significant flood risks. Hampton Police Chief Alex Reno expressed concern about the storm’s impact on tidal conditions. This Saturday, a Harvest Moon is expected, which typically results in higher tides. The additional storm could exacerbate flooding.
Reno advised residents to move their vehicles to avoid damage and ensure operable sump pumps are in place. He also suggested using sandbags or barriers to prevent water from entering homes.
Discussions have been ongoing regarding flood mitigation strategies in the Hampton area, including levees and other protective measures. The police department is collaborating with other Seacoast communities to plan for potential flooding and related road closures.
In preparation for the storm, local authorities are taking precautionary measures, setting up barricades and signage to direct traffic if necessary.
