Strong Storms and Damaging Winds Head Toward New Jersey Tonight
When will storms hit New Jersey?
The strongest storm activity may develop during the evening and continue through the overnight hours. Depending on the county, timing can vary, so residents should continue to monitor local alerts. Storms are possible, with heavy rain, lightning and quick wind gusts. Conditions will gradually improve later tonight or early tomorrow.
Where are we most at risk of storms?
Depending on the track of the system, parts of central, northern and coastal New Jersey could see the storm hit harder. Continued heavy rain in the same areas can quickly cause flooding in urban areas, highways and low-lying neighbourhoods. Coastal communities also need to watch for rough conditions and poor visibility.
- North Jersey could experience gusty storms and lightning.
- Central Jersey could have some areas of heavy rain.
- Strong cells possible, scattered in southern NJ.
- Watch winds changing in coastal areas.
How bad could the winds get?
The big story with tonight’s storms is the damaging winds. Strong wind can snap off tree limbs and blow around outdoor furniture in short bursts and create dangerous driving conditions. The strongest wind gusts tend to occur in the most intense thunderstorm cells, especially when storms form lines or clusters.
How Much Damage Can This Type of Storm Do?
While storm damage may not be widespread everywhere, any strong cell can create local problems. The most common problems are fallen branches, blocked roads, brief power cuts and waterlogged streets. “Drivers, homeowners and businesses should prepare in advance of the storms arriving, not in the wake of warnings being issued.
- Secure trash cans and patio furniture.
- Charge phones and spare batteries.
- Park vehicles away from big trees.
- No flooded roads or underpasses.
- Keep flashlights handy for power outages.
Heavy rain will cause flooding?
Some communities may experience a short burst of heavy rain that can cause poor drainage and street flooding. Drivers may not see standing water until it is too late, and flooding can occur quickly at nighttime. Do not drive through flooded roads, even if the water appears shallow.
Tornadoes Tonight? Will There Be
Straight-line winds are the main threat, but strong thunderstorms can rotate briefly at times. ” Tornado risk would be dependent on the strength of the storms and local conditions. Residents should take severe thunderstorm warnings very seriously and go indoors immediately when weather alerts mention rotation or tornado danger.
How can families protect themselves?
During severe storms, the safest place is inside a sturdy building, away from windows and glass doors. “Families should pre-select one safe room before the storm arrives. Don’t forget to keep your weather alert system on overnight, too, because warnings are sometimes issued when many folks are sleeping.
- Stay indoors if there is thunder and lightning.
- Stay away from windows in high winds.
- Keep children and pets indoors.
- Receive mobile alerts for local weather.
What do drivers need to know for tonight?
Travel could be difficult in the strongest storms, particularly on main roads, bridges and low-lying routes. High-profile vehicles are more difficult to drive in wind gusts. Visibility can be reduced in seconds by sudden downpours. Drivers are urged to slow down, increase following distances and avoid unnecessary travel during warnings.
When Would Conditions Change?
Conditions should get better once the main storm line moves out of New Jersey, but wet roads, scattered debris and lingering showers could hang around for a while. Places that have heavy rain during the night could still be affected in the morning. “Residents are asked to check road conditions before heading out early.
Why Residents Need to Stay Weather Aware
Severe weather can evolve quickly, especially in the evening and overnight. If a powerful cell forms nearby, clear skies can become dangerous in minutes. “Knowing the weather enables people to act in advance, protect property and avoid hazardous travel when damaging winds, lightning and flooding are possible.
