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A flash flood warning was issued for several parts of New Jersey on Friday as powerful thunderstorms brought intense rainfall, overwhelmed drainage systems and created dangerous conditions on roads and highways.
The warnings marked the third time this week that portions of the state faced flash flooding concerns. The National Weather Service said some locations had already received up to 1.5 inches of rain, with another 1.5 to 2.5 inches possible over the following hours.
Urgent Flash Flood Warning Covers Multiple N.J. Counties
The first warning Friday afternoon covered Sussex and Warren counties. It was issued shortly before 4:25 p.m. and remained active until 8 p.m.
A broader alert followed at approximately 5:20 p.m. for sections of Hunterdon, Morris, Somerset and Sussex counties. That warning was scheduled to remain in effect until 8:15 p.m.
Sections of Mercer and Middlesex counties were then placed under a flash flood warning through 8:45 p.m. Another widespread warning affected portions of Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Passaic and Union counties until 9 p.m.
Residents were urged to monitor changing conditions, especially in low-lying areas, near streams and along roads where water can accumulate quickly. Localized flooding can develop in minutes when thunderstorms produce heavy rainfall over already saturated or poorly drained ground.
Powerful Storms Bring Dangerous Rainfall Rates
New Jersey remained locked in a humid and unstable weather pattern Friday evening. Forecasters said showers and thunderstorms would continue through about 9 p.m., with some storms capable of producing rainfall rates between 2 and 3 inches per hour.
Those rainfall rates can quickly overwhelm storm drains and cause water to rise across streets, underpasses and highway ramps. Even shallow moving water can create hazardous driving conditions, particularly after dark when flooded areas may be difficult to see.
The combination of extreme humidity and high temperatures also increased the strength of the storms. Afternoon temperatures climbed into the low and mid-90s, while the heat index made it feel like the upper 90s to low 100s in many locations.
That heat and moisture provided additional fuel for thunderstorms, raising the potential for intense downpours, strong wind gusts and sudden flooding. The entire state was also under a severe thunderstorm watch through 9 p.m.
What New Jersey Residents Should Do Now
People in or near warned areas should take flood alerts seriously and be prepared to move to higher ground if water begins rising. The safest choice is to remain indoors during the strongest storms and avoid unnecessary travel.
- Never drive through flooded roads or around barricades.
- Turn around if water covers a roadway, even if the depth appears shallow.
- Move vehicles away from areas that commonly flood.
- Stay away from streams, creeks, drainage channels and fast-moving water.
- Keep phones charged and monitor official weather notifications.
- Be alert for fallen trees, downed power lines and sudden road closures.
Drivers should remember that flooded pavement may conceal damaged roads, open manholes or debris. A vehicle can lose control or be swept away in far less water than many people expect.
More Storms Possible Saturday
The unsettled pattern was expected to continue into Saturday. Additional showers and thunderstorms could develop during the evening or overnight as a cold front approaches the region.
That means some communities may face renewed flooding concerns even after Friday’s warnings expire. Areas that receive repeated downpours could remain vulnerable because the ground and drainage systems may have little time to recover.
Weather conditions can change quickly during summer storms. A storm that appears isolated on radar can intensify rapidly, while a neighborhood several miles away may experience very different rainfall totals.
New Jersey residents should continue checking local alerts and weather updates throughout the weekend. A flash flood warning indicates that flooding is occurring or is about to occur, and immediate action may be necessary in the affected area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a flash flood warning mean?
A flash flood warning means flooding is happening or expected soon in a specific area. Residents should move to higher ground and avoid flooded roads immediately.
Which New Jersey counties faced warnings Friday?
Warnings covered parts of Sussex, Warren, Hunterdon, Morris, Somerset, Mercer, Middlesex, Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Passaic and Union counties.
How much rain was expected?
The National Weather Service reported that up to 1.5 inches had already fallen in some areas, with another 1.5 to 2.5 inches possible. Rainfall rates could reach 2 to 3 inches per hour.
Is it safe to drive through standing water?
No. Drivers should never attempt to cross flooded roads because water may be deeper or faster-moving than it appears and could hide dangerous debris or roadway damage.
