By: Richard L. Smith
Good morning, New Jersey!
We are waking up to much calmer conditions across the Newark and North Jersey region after a night of dangerous storms that turned streets into rivers and prompted dozens of water rescues.
As of 4:30 a.m., it is 70 degrees in downtown Newark. While a few lingering showers and areas of drizzle remain, conditions are expected to gradually improve through the morning.
If you’re heading to the bus stop or leaving early for work, you’ll still want to grab an umbrella or rain jacket, especially if you’re in areas seeing leftover showers.
New Jersey has been in the bull’s-eye for rounds of heavy rain over the past several days, leaving saturated ground and swollen waterways across the region.
Paterson and communities along the Passaic River were among the hardest hit. Emergency responders were overwhelmed as floodwaters quickly rose, with officials reporting more than 40 rescue calls, including approximately 20 water rescues during the height of the storm according to Paterson’s Mayor.
Even though the heaviest rain has moved out, many roads may still be flooded. Never attempt to drive through standing water, and allow yourself extra travel time during the morning commute.
The storms also knocked out electricity to approximately 7,000 customers across New Jersey, adding to the challenges many residents are facing this morning.
According to the National Weather Service, there remains a chance of additional showers and thunderstorms today, mainly after 2 p.m.
Skies will become partly sunny with a high near 80 degrees and a northwest wind between 6 and 8 mph. Another chance of showers and thunderstorms is expected this evening before conditions gradually clear overnight.
Our RLS Media weather team will continue to monitor conditions throughout the day. Have a safe Wednesday, and remember to use extra caution if you encounter flooded roadways.