Heavy Rain and Damaging Winds Expected as Severe Storms Move Into New Jersey

Heavy Rain and Damaging Winds Expected as Severe Storms Move Into New Jersey

The risk of severe thunderstorms Friday night has increased, with flash flooding and damaging winds being the primary threat, according to the National Weather Service.

A very hot and humid day is on tap before the storms move in.

A Heat Advisory remains in place for most of the state through Saturday. The exception is the far southern counties.

Heat index values are expected to climb as high as 104 degrees, according to the National Weather Service. Isolated to scattered severe thunderstorms are forecast to develop between 4 p.m. and 11 p.m.

Forecasters with the National Weather Service warned that any thunderstorms that develop could produce damaging wind gusts and torrential downpours, increasing the risk of localized flash flooding.

Although no flash flood warnings have been issued, rainfall rates could reach 2 to 3 inches per hour. If heavy rain persists, flooding could develop quickly, particularly in urban and poor-drainage areas.

The highest risk for severe weather is expected along and northwest of the I-95 corridor.

Additional thunderstorms are expected to develop on Saturday, although forecasters say the timing and severity remain uncertain.

Conditions are expected to improve on Sunday, with drier weather and slightly lower humidity. However, the break won't last long.

Hot, humid weather is forecast to return Monday and Tuesday, bringing another chance for showers and thunderstorms. A cold front is expected to move through late Tuesday or Wednesday, potentially bringing relief from the oppressive heat and humidity, while also keeping the threat of storms in the forecast.