Surfer Turns Bomb Cyclone Chill Into Spectacle by Riding Ice Chunk on New Jersey Shore

In a rare winter spectacle during an East Coast bomb cyclone, New Jersey surfer Rob Kelly turned frigid adversity into innovation by riding a chunk of ice, creating what he dubbed the 'ice boogie.' As the bomb cyclone plunged the coastline into freezing conditions—enough to form slush in the surf—Kelly’s unconventional session brought a dash of creativity to the icy waves.

Key Takeaways

• Bomb cyclone brings freezing temperatures and rare ice in Atlantic surf.
• Surfer Rob Kelly rides a floating ice chunk, coining the term "ice boogie."
• Icy lineups result in empty beaches, unique surf experiences, and unusual scenery.
• Officials urge the public to stay indoors amid life-threatening cold.

Bomb Cyclone Transforms Coastline

The recent bomb cyclone has battered the U.S. East Coast with extreme cold, pushing temperatures so low that even the ocean has started to freeze in places. Iconic locations such as Montauk, NY, have seen slushy waves rolling into shore, a sight rarely witnessed this far south on the Atlantic seaboard. The storm brought an Arctic transformation that turned familiar beach landscapes into backdrops reminiscent of Alaska.

The Birth of the "Ice Boogie"

Seeing masses of ice floating along the New Jersey shoreline, Rob Kelly was inspired. Rather than letting the cold trap him indoors, Kelly embraced the frozen adventure, grabbing a chunk of ice and attempting to surf it. His spontaneous creation—the "ice boogie"—proved both challenging and surprisingly functional, at least until the ice began to melt underfoot.

"I was out there and saw all these ice pieces drifting by," Kelly explained after his frosty ride. "It just clicked—I had to try surfing one in."

Empty Waves and Unique Surf Sessions

While the bomb cyclone discouraged most from braving the beaches, Kelly and a handful of dedicated surfers seized the opportunity. The challenging weather kept crowds away, resulting in completely empty lineups—an extremely rare treat in a normally bustling surf region. With snow in the air and ice breaking in the waves, Kelly and friends enjoyed pristine tubes and surreal, silent scenes along the waterfront.

"The best part is having the entire shore to yourself," Kelly shared. "You just don’t see that—even in winter, unless it’s extreme."

Surfers Defy Warnings with Proper Preparation

Despite official urgings for residents to avoid the dangerous chill, a few well-prepared surfers ventured out, equipped with the thickest wetsuits and a sense of adventure. For most, it’s a time to crank up the heat indoors, but for Kelly, this deep freeze offered a once-in-a-lifetime coastal playground—though he admits it’s only fun with the right gear and the right mindset.

As for the spectacle’s fleeting nature, Kelly relishes the contrast, reminding everyone that the same beach will soon fill again with summer crowds and umbrellas. For now, it remains a frozen wonderland—one where ice and waves collide in unforgettable ways.

Sources

• Surfer Rides Ice Chunk During East Coast Bomb Cyclone (Video), SURFER Magazine.