Powerful Thunderstorms Sweep Across New Jersey With Flood Threat and Damaging Winds

Powerful Thunderstorms Sweep Across New Jersey With Flood Threat and Damaging Winds

Flash flood watches and warnings were issued across large portions of New Jersey Thursday afternoon as another round of thunderstorms swept into the state.

The National Weather Service placed parts of Middlesex, Monmouth, Mercer, Somerset, Camden, southeastern Hunterdon, northwestern Gloucester, and northwestern Salem counties under flash flood warnings through Thursday evening due to the risk of rapidly rising water.

Video posted on X by meteorologist Collin Gross showed flooding along Route 1 in Edison on Thursday afternoon, where vehicles were seen cautiously making their way through high water.

In South Brunswick, flash flooding stranded multiple vehicles and prompted the closure of New Road between Route 1 and Route 27, according to police.

Authorities in East Brunswick urged residents to remain off the roads and stay home as flooding continued to worsen.

Meanwhile, intense thunderstorms brought frequent lightning, which officials believe sparked a house fire in Old Bridge. Fire crews from several neighboring communities responded to help battle the blaze.

Flood watches also remain in effect for Burlington, Ocean, Cumberland, and Atlantic counties, as well as the portions of Salem, Gloucester, Middlesex, Mercer, and Hunterdon counties that are not currently under flash flood warnings, according to the National Weather Service.

With severe weather approaching, officials in Brick Township announced that Thursday night's SummerFest concert and fireworks celebration had been postponed as a precaution.

Forecasters said the greatest risk for severe thunderstorms is expected across South Jersey.

"Although damaging wind gusts and isolated flash flooding are also possible in northern parts of the state, the highest potential for severe weather and significant flooding is expected to remain generally south of Philadelphia," the National Weather Service said.

Another round of showers and thunderstorms is forecast for Friday, with heavy rainfall and flash flooding once again posing the greatest concern. Depending on how much rain falls on Thursday, forecasters say the flood watch could be expanded to include additional areas.

The unsettled weather pattern may continue into Saturday, with lingering showers and thunderstorms possible, according to the forecast.