For the third time this week, flash flood warnings have been issued in parts of New Jersey because of scattered thunderstorms Friday that are dumping heavy rain and overwhelming drainage systems on some roads and highways.
The National Weather Service says up to 1.5 inches of rain has already fallen in the warned areas — and there’s a potential for another 1.5 to 2.5 inches in the next few hours.
A flash flood warning for Sussex and Warren counties was issued shortly before 4:25 p.m., remaining active until 8 p.m. Friday.
A more widespread flash flood warning was issued at about 5:20 p.m., covering sections of Hunterdon, Morris, Somerset and Sussex counties, effective until 8:15 p.m.
Sections of Mercer and Middlesex counties were placed under a flash flood warning through 8:45 p.m. And another widespread flash flood warning was issued for parts of Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Passaic and Union counties, active through 9 p.m.
To see the latest flood warnings and thunderstorm warnings issued in New Jersey today, check NJ.com’s live weather alerts tracker below.
With New Jersey stuck in a very humid weather pattern and unstable atmosphere, occasional showers and thunderstorms are expected Friday evening, and some of the rain can be very heavy — with potential rainfall rates of 2 to 3 inches per hour — forecasters said.
Temperatures rose into the low to mid-90s this afternoon, but the high humidity was making it feel as hot as the upper 90s to low 100s in many locations.
The high heat and humidity could add fuel to some of the thunderstorms, making them more intense.
Today’s thunderstorm threat is expected to continue through 9 p.m., and the entire state remains under a severe thunderstorm watch until that time.
More showers and thunderstorms could hit New Jersey on Saturday during the evening or overnight hours as a cold front approaches the region.
NJ.com’s live weather alerts tracker
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