Flood Watch Issued For Morris County As Severe Storms Approach

MORRIS COUNTY, NJ — Morris County residents are being urged to prepare for possible flash flooding and severe thunderstorms Tuesday, with torrential rainfall expected during the afternoon and evening.

A Flood Watch is in effect throughout Morris County until 2 a.m. Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service.

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The Morris County Office of Emergency Management said showers and isolated downpours were beginning to develop Tuesday morning, but the most serious conditions are expected later in the day.

Numerous showers and thunderstorms could develop Tuesday afternoon and continue into the night. The strongest storms may produce wind gusts of 50 to 65 mph, large hail, frequent lightning and torrential rainfall, county officials said.

An isolated tornado also cannot be ruled out, although officials described that risk as low.

Flooding is expected to be the primary concern. Some storms could produce rainfall rates of two to three inches per hour, according to the National Weather Service. Locations repeatedly hit by storms could receive localized totals of two to three inches or more.

The heavy rain could cause ponding on roads, rapid rises along streams and creeks, flooding in low-lying or poorly drained areas, and some road closures.

“Never drive through a flooded roadway,” county emergency management officials said, warning that even a small amount of moving water can create dangerous conditions.

The National Weather Service said Morris County has a 90 percent chance of rain Tuesday, with temperatures reaching the upper 70s. Severe thunderstorms capable of producing damaging winds are possible during the afternoon and evening.

The greatest regional threat for severe weather is expected between 2 and 9 p.m., according to an NWS briefing. Residents should monitor forecasts and make sure they can receive weather watches and warnings.

South winds of 5 to 10 mph are expected, with higher gusts outside of thunderstorms.

Conditions should improve after the system moves through. Wednesday is forecast to be partly sunny and humid, with highs in the lower 80s, although an isolated afternoon storm remains possible.

Thursday and Friday are expected to bring sunshine, lower humidity, and temperatures around 80 degrees. Mostly sunny conditions are forecast to continue Saturday.