New Jersey's flood-prone zones are on high alert before the expected weekend nor'easter.

Onlookers came out to see the Manasquan Inlet already overflowing. Nearby roads and neighborhoods flooded Wednesday and Thursday nights.

"We flood a lot, but this will be bigger than usual over the weekend, I think," said Donna Ruggiero, of Manasquan.

"When there's a lot of wind, it's not like the tide just comes in and goes out," said Berta Konegen, of Manasquan. "It stays flooded for several hours."

Wesley Lake in Asbury Park is a beautiful backdrop. It’s also a known flood zone.

Across the street, Asbury Social recently opened in what had been the old biergarten. Years ago, the location had to close after 4 feet of flooding.

The restaurant and social club has been in business about a month in their soft opening. They say the location by the lake is great for business but also presents a weather challenge.

News 12 got a hands-on look at their new floodgate system.

There are three levels to it. The owners say it is FEMA-approved, from a company in Florida. The cost ran some six figures, but pales in comparison to the cost of potential flood damage.

Asbury Social ownership says they’ve already had to try out their new system, and they are glad they have it.