Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued In Somerset County

SOMERSET COUNTY, NJ — A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for Somerset County on Monday, with a threat of severe storms until about 10 p.m., the National Weather Service said.

The threat includes the potential for isolated damaging wind gusts up to 75 mph and large hail up to 1.5 inches in diameter, the weather service said. The watch began at 2:55 p.m.

The severe thunderstorm watch applies to 13 New Jersey counties — primarily in the southern and central regions.

The forecast has resulted in some towns postponing or canceling their Fourth of July celebrations that were set to take place Monday including nearby in Rahway. As of 4 p.m. the Franklin Township's Independence Day Celebration & Fireworks are still for 6 p.m. on Monday. Read More: Fireworks Near Me: Somerset County July 4th Events 2023

If you planned to attend an event, check for updates from local officials or event organizers.

Here is the forecast for Somerset County for the rest of Monday and for Tuesday, July 4th, from the National Weather Service:

Monday Afternoon: A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Some storms could be severe, with damaging winds and heavy rain. Mostly sunny, with a high near 89. Southwest wind around 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30 percent. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Monday Night: Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 2 a.m. Some storms could be severe, with damaging winds and heavy rain. Increasing clouds, with a low around 69. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Independence Day: Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 2 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 85. West wind around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Tuesday Night: Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 7pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 68. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.