By: Richard L. Smith
Good morning, New Jersey! If you’re up with us at 4:30 a.m., it’s currently 74 degrees in downtown Newark, and we’re watching what could become a repeat of the destructive storms that swept across the state over the weekend.
A Flash Flood Watch is in effect for much of New Jersey as forecasters warn that slow-moving thunderstorms capable of producing 1 to 2 inches of rain, damaging wind gusts, and localized flash flooding are expected later today and tonight.
Residents are encouraged to have their rain gear ready and remain weather aware.
While it won’t be raining all day, the storms that do develop could quickly become severe, bringing torrential downpours that may overwhelm roadways, flood neighborhoods, and cause damage in some communities.
Many areas of New Jersey are still recovering from the weekend’s flooding, which inundated streets, damaged homes, stranded motorists, and left behind a difficult cleanup.
Today’s weather setup has the potential to create similar problems, especially in low-lying and flood-prone locations.
Air travel is also feeling the impact. Officials report more than 500 flight cancellations as airlines prepare for the expected storms moving through the region.
According to the National Weather Service, showers and thunderstorms are likely to develop after 4 p.m. under mostly cloudy skies, with temperatures reaching around 85 degrees.
South winds of 5 to 15 mph will accompany the storms.
Tonight, showers and thunderstorms are expected to become more widespread.
Some storms could be severe, producing damaging wind gusts, frequent lightning, and heavy rainfall. Rainfall totals of 1 to 2 inches, with locally higher amounts, are possible before the storms move out overnight.
If you must travel today, allow extra time, avoid driving through flooded roadways, and keep a close eye on changing weather conditions.
Be safe, New Jersey.