Debby’s Track Shifts: What New Jersey Needs to Know
August 8, 2024Weather Alert: Tornado Watch in Effect for NJ Residents
August 9, 2024
Tropical Storm Debby Could Bring Tornadoes and Flooding to NJ
As Tropical Storm Debby moves into New Jersey, the Garden State may see tornadoes, flash flooding, and several inches of rain.
The
National Weather Service says that the storm's first bands of rain will arrive in New Jersey on Thursday, but Friday is the main day of concern.
According to National Weather Service forecasters, "rain bands today should be fast moving enough (and limited in coverage) to limit the flooding threat," in their briefing on Thursday. "That being said, the later half of the day, the environment will increasingly have similarities to a tropical environment, with high precipitable water values and very deep warm cloud layers, so localized flash flooding is possible."
The prediction indicates that there is a possibility of severe thunderstorms throughout the state on Friday, possibly leading to tornadoes into Friday night. The state is "in the more favorable zone for the tornado risk," according to the National Weather Service, as Debby is traveling further inward.
It will be windy even if there are no tornadoes; forecasts predict winds of 15 to 25 mph with gusts of at least 30 to 40 mph. There may be rip currents in the ocean and gusts of up to 50 mph along the coast.
AccuWeather Meteorologist Brandon Buckingham stated, "The combination of tropical storm force winds will have trees bobbing and tipping in the saturated soil, and a number may topple over that can lead to property damage and power outages."
Along with flash flooding around the state, there are worries about minor tidal flooding and flooding in the main stem river.
The good news is that the prediction indicates that Debby's departure will bring in a spell of cooler, drier weather with reduced humidity.
