TRENTON, N.J. — A flood watch has been issued across large portions of New Jersey from Friday evening through Saturday morning as forecasters warn of heavy rain capable of producing flash flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas.

The National Weather Service said excessive rainfall is possible in counties across central, northern, northwest, and southern parts of the state. The affected areas include Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Somerset, Sussex, Warren, Hunterdon, Camden, Gloucester, northwestern Burlington, and Salem.

“Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible,” according to the NWS bulletin issued Friday.

Flood watch in effect for parts of jersey through saturday morning — Photo: flood watch in effect for parts of jersey through saturday morning

Rain is expected to begin late Friday and continue overnight into Saturday. Forecasters predict periods of intense rainfall with rates of up to 1 to 2 inches per hour, potentially totaling 1 to 3 inches over a 6 to 12-hour span.

Rivers, creeks at risk of overflow

Excessive runoff could cause small rivers, creeks, and streams to overflow, potentially leading to flooding in urban and rural areas alike. Water levels in flood-prone zones are expected to rise rapidly if the forecasted rainfall materializes.

Officials are advising residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert and prepare for the possibility of rapidly changing conditions overnight.

The weather service urges people in affected regions to monitor local forecasts and stay alert for potential flood warnings, especially those living near waterways or in low-lying neighborhoods.

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