TRENTON, N.J. — The National Weather Service has issued Severe Thunderstorm Watch 260 for much of New Jersey, effective until 5 p.m. Friday, as unstable conditions heighten the risk for strong storms across the region.
Counties included in the watch are Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean, Salem, Somerset, and Warren.
According to the Storm Prediction Center, residents in the affected areas should remain alert for the potential of damaging winds, hail, and heavy rainfall throughout the day.
Today’s forecast calls for a 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly between 2 p.m. and 3 p.m., with additional activity possible into the afternoon. Skies will remain mostly cloudy with a high near 77 degrees and light south winds between 5 to 10 mph.
Rain and fog expected to return overnight
Tonight, there is a 30% chance of additional showers and thunderstorms, especially after 4 a.m. Areas of fog are expected to develop between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. Low temperatures will settle around 63 degrees with continued light winds from the south.
Saturday brings a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Conditions will turn partly sunny with a high near 83 degrees. Rainfall is expected to be light, though heavier downpours are possible in isolated thunderstorms.
Saturday night may see a few lingering storms before 11 p.m., with partly cloudy skies and a low around 59. Winds will shift west around 10 mph.
Sunday’s forecast calls for mostly sunny skies with a high near 76. West winds will strengthen to 10 to 15 mph, with gusts reaching 30 mph. Sunday night will be partly cloudy with lows around 56.