Nor'easter Brings Heavy Rain and High Winds to New Jersey

A powerful nor'easter began impacting New Jersey early Sunday, bringing heavy rain and strong winds, with significant coastal flooding expected during high tides. The National Weather Service has issued high wind warnings and coastal flood warnings for multiple counties, forecasting wind gusts up to 60 mph and storm surges threatening coastal communities.

All 21 New Jersey counties are under a state of emergency that took effect at 10 p.m. Saturday. The National Weather Service stated that "moderate to major coastal flood impacts remain likely," warning of widespread roadway flooding, impassable roads, significant inundation of structures, and possible evacuations.

Inland areas can expect wind gusts around 30 to 40 mph, raising the potential for widespread power outages. Rainfall totals have been adjusted downward, with most of New Jersey now expected to receive less than an inch of rain, while counties along the Jersey Shore may see 1 to 3 inches. The weather service cautioned that coastal areas could experience compounded impacts from heavy rain atop moderate to major tidal flooding, especially during high tide cycles.

The storm is also expected to cause beach erosion and possible dune breaching along the entire New Jersey Shore, with breaking waves potentially reaching 8 to 12 feet. High tides beginning Sunday afternoon are the main concern for major flooding, with Atlantic City's oceanfront forecasted to reach 8.1 feet Monday afternoon, just above major flood stage. High tides in Cape May Harbor are expected to hit major flood stage both Sunday and Monday afternoons.

Residents in coastal areas should prepare for potential power outages, flooding, and wind damage. The National Weather Service recommends securing loose outdoor items, staying away from coastal areas during high tide, and being prepared for possible emergency evacuations. The storm is expected to weaken and move away from New Jersey on Monday night, with conditions gradually improving by Tuesday. High pressure will build into the region by midweek, bringing drier and cooler conditions. Temperatures are expected to trend below normal Thursday and Friday, with a return to more typical autumn weather by the weekend.