North Jersey Braces for Stormy Day with High Winds and Flooding
Heavy Rain and Strong Winds Disrupt Commutes
North Jersey experienced a turbulent morning as a powerful storm swept through the region, bringing heavy rain and strong winds. The inclement weather caused significant disruptions, including fallen trees and flooded roads, making commutes particularly difficult.
The National Weather Service issued warnings that the rain would persist throughout much of the day.
Afternoon Brings Wind Advisory
By afternoon, the rain was expected to subside, but the winds were forecasted to intensify. A wind advisory was in effect, with gusts reaching up to 55 mph. These strong winds posed risks such as:
- Knocking over loose outdoor items
- Uprooting weakened trees
- Causing power outages, with thousands already affected
Temperature Drop Adds to Unpredictable Weather
The day began with near-record high temperatures in the mid to upper 50s. However, by Friday evening, temperatures were expected to plummet into the 30s, followed by a further drop into the 20s overnight. This sudden shift underscored the unpredictable nature of December weather.
Disruptions and Hazards
The storm led to significant disruptions, including:
- Downed trees on major roads
- Flooding on key routes
- A crash on Route 287 in Oakland, reported by the New Jersey Department of Transportation
Power Outages Widespread
Power outages were a major concern, with:
- Over 8,600 customers affected, primarily in Sussex County
- Over 1,000 outages reported in Bergen County
The strong winds continued to pose a risk of additional outages as the day progressed.
Residents Advised to Stay Alert
The storm served as a stark reminder of how quickly weather conditions can change. Residents were urged to:
- Secure outdoor items
- Stay alert for further updates
The combination of rain, wind, and falling temperatures made for a particularly challenging day in North Jersey.
