New Jersey is bracing for a strong storm expected to hit on Thursday, bringing with it a mix of isolated thunderstorms, wind gusts reaching up to 50 mph, heavy rainfall, and coastal flooding. The National Weather Service anticipates the storm will significantly impact the area, especially during the afternoon and evening hours.
Rainfall is projected to range between 1 to 2 inches across most regions, with some localized areas potentially receiving up to 3 inches. Intense periods of rain may produce rates nearing 1 inch per hour, leading to the possibility of minor flooding in urban and poorly drained areas. Additionally, forecasters have warned of isolated severe thunderstorms, which could bring damaging winds or even a brief tornado, posing risks of tree damage and power outages due to the full foliage still present on trees.
As the storm develops, easterly winds are expected to pick up strength throughout the day, with inland gusts of 30 to 40 mph and even stronger winds of 40 to 50 mph along the Jersey Shore. A wind advisory is currently in effect for all coastal counties, indicating the potential for downed tree limbs and scattered power outages.
Coastal flood advisories have also been issued for areas along the Jersey Shore and Delaware Bay due to anticipated minor flooding during high tide cycles this evening. However, the forecast gives some hope for Halloween night, as the rain is expected to taper off, though strong winds are likely to persist into the evening, coinciding with trick-or-treating hours.
Looking ahead, as the storm moves out on Friday, westerly winds are predicted to remain at strong levels, with gusts of up to 50 mph possible throughout the day. This shift in wind direction may exacerbate the risk of tree damage and further power outages. Temperatures will cool down, with highs expected in the mid to upper 50s.
Following the storm, gradually improving weather conditions are expected over the weekend. Saturday might still feel breezy with gusts up to 25 mph, while Sunday is anticipated to offer a calmer atmosphere with temperatures remaining seasonable in the mid to upper 50s under partly to mostly sunny skies. Early next week is set to continue under the influence of high pressure, with potential for a cold front to approach by Tuesday, although it appears unlikely to affect New Jersey directly.
As conditions improve, residents can look forward to a pleasant end to the weekend, which offers a refreshing break from the turbulent weather brought by Thursday’s storm.