By: Richard L. Smith
Forecasters at the National Weather Service are currently monitoring deteriorating weather condition for Friday, December 23rd.
The National Weather Service has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook for much of Northern NJ.
This is in addition to a Flood Watch, which began Thursday at 7:00 pm through this evening at 7:00 pm, during which excessive rainfall is possible.
The current forecast data showed rain showers moved into Morris, Essex, Bergen, Union, and Passaic counties around midday Thursday.
Forecasters at The National Weather Service said heavy rain increased throughout the afternoon and into the evening hour, tapering off just before dawn.
Rain will pick up again as an anticipated cold front moves into our area, dropping temperatures to below-freezing.
A small amount of snow ½” max is possible as temperatures continue to fall. Wind speeds will vary between 10 – 20 mph, with gusts potentially over 40 mph. The heaviest torrential rain happened between the hours of 11 p.m. to 4 a.m.
New Jersey is expected to see rain, strong winds and the potential for snow and ice as the storm moves through and temperatures drop rapidly, which could make driving conditions treacherous.
NJ Department of Transportation said travel restrictions are being coordinated with neighboring states.
In addition to the commercial restrictions, all motorists are encouraged to avoid unnecessary travel on Friday.
Newark and other NJ municipalities warned residents that poor drainage and flooding remain a concern.
Total rainfall amounts of 1- 2” are forecasted, with isolated amounts up to 2.5” possible. The vicious storm had town officials throughout NJ alert residents of potential high wind gusts that may impact electrical lines causing power outages.
Governor Phil Murphy urges residents to use mass transit during the storm and, if possible, stay off the roads.