Surf slams Scituate shores at high tide

SCITUATE, Mass. (WHDH) -- The South Shore coast line was slammed by high tide Saturday morning.

Emergency responders urged residents to evacuate the area because high tide could lead to flooding and serious damage to the area that was already dealing with massive power outages.

As of 3:00 p.m., the entire town of Scituate is still without power. On Saturday morning, more than 90 percent of the South Shore was in the dark.

When high tide hit overnight water crashed over the sea wall and flooding was seen along places like 7th Avenue. The high school was being used as an emergency shelter. The police chief was there reminding people that the Saturday morning hours would be critical as the next high tide rolled in.

“I can't advise strongly enough that in the morning before this next tide that people along the coast are just going to get out of their homes, take advantage of the shelter here, until the danger passes,” said Chief Brian Stewart of the Scituate Police Department.

The chief said there was some flooding over in the area near the light house. Though the tide had gone out, the water was still spilling over the sea wall.

Many gas stations are shut down and long lines have formed at an open station in Marshfield.

“I’m waiting for someone to chase me down for my gas so I got to get out of here before I see a guy with a hose. The line is all the way downtown right now. I haven’t seen this since the 70s,” said Laurie Allen

“I’ve been in line for probably 25 minutes but to make sure I don’t have to call Triple A, it’s worth it,” said Brian Stratton.

“It’s no surprise. They’re the only gas station with gas, so got to wait for it,” said Ann Darilario.

Police in Scituate were patrolling in their HUMVs and SUVs, urging people stay away from the shore and flooded areas.

The National Guard is also in position to make sure the cleanup goes smoothly.