Flash Flood Watch Issued Across New Jersey as Slow-Moving Storms Threaten Flood-Weary State

A Flash Flood Watch is in effect for much of New Jersey on Tuesday, July 21, as forecasters expect slow-moving thunderstorms to bring heavy rain, damaging wind gusts and the risk of localized flash flooding later in the day and into the night.

At 4:30 a.m., the temperature in downtown Newark stood at 74 degrees. Forecasters are watching for a setup that could repeat the destructive storms that swept across the state over the weekend.

The storms are not expected to bring rain all day. But those that do develop could turn severe quickly, producing torrential downpours that may overwhelm roadways, flood neighborhoods and damage property in some communities. Residents have been encouraged to keep rain gear handy and stay alert to changing conditions.

Many parts of New Jersey are still recovering from the weekend flooding, which inundated streets, damaged homes and stranded motorists, leaving a difficult cleanup in its wake. The latest weather pattern could create similar problems, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas.

Air travel is already being affected. Officials report more than 500 flight cancellations as airlines prepare for the storms moving through the region.

According to the National Weather Service, showers and thunderstorms are likely to develop after 4 p.m. beneath mostly cloudy skies. Temperatures are expected to reach around 85 degrees, with south winds of 5 to 15 mph accompanying the storms.

Activity is forecast to become more widespread Tuesday night. Some storms could be severe, bringing damaging wind gusts, frequent lightning and heavy rainfall. Totals of 1 to 2 inches are possible, with locally higher amounts, before the storms move out overnight.

Anyone who must travel is advised to allow extra time, avoid driving through flooded roadways and monitor the weather closely as conditions change.