LAKEWOOD, NJ – The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Warning for northeastern Ocean County and southeastern Monmouth County, urging residents to avoid travel as heavy thunderstorms continue to produce dangerous flooding.
The warning remains in effect until 3:45 p.m., with forecasters warning that flash flooding is already occurring or is expected to develop rapidly across the affected area.
At 11:44 a.m., Doppler radar detected thunderstorms producing torrential rainfall, with between 0.5 and 2 inches already reported in portions of the warned area. Rainfall rates are expected to reach 1.5 to 3 inches per hour, with an additional 1 to 3 inches possible through the afternoon.
The National Weather Service warned that flooding conditions may worsen as high tide approaches along the coast.
Toms River, Brick, Lakewood and Jackson among communities under warning
The Flash Flood Warning includes portions of Ocean and Monmouth counties, including:
- Toms River
- Lakewood
- Jackson
- Brick Township
- Point Pleasant Beach
- Lakehurst
- Mantoloking
- Manasquan
- Allenwood
- Ramtown
- Leisure Village
- Leisure Village East
Major roadways affected include portions of Interstate 195 between mile markers 21 and 34 and the Garden State Parkway between mile markers 85 and 99.
‘Life-threatening’ flooding possible
The National Weather Service classified the event as presenting a “considerable” flash flood damage threat, warning that flooding could quickly overwhelm roads, intersections, streams and low-lying neighborhoods.
Forecasters warned of:
- Life-threatening flash flooding
- Flooding of creeks and streams
- Urban street flooding
- Flooded highways and underpasses
- Rapidly rising water in poor drainage areas
Officials urged motorists not to attempt to drive through flooded roadways.
“Turn around… don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles,” the National Weather Service said.
Flood Watch remains in effect
In addition to the warning, a broader Flood Watch remains in effect through Monday evening for much of New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania and northern Delaware.
The watch includes Ocean, Monmouth, Burlington, Atlantic, Cape May, Camden, Gloucester, Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Somerset, Hunterdon, Salem, Sussex and Warren counties, among others.
Meteorologists said additional rounds of heavy showers and thunderstorms could produce localized rainfall totals exceeding 2 inches in an hour, particularly in areas that experienced flooding Sunday evening.
Excessive runoff could cause rivers, creeks and streams to overflow while flooding streets, parking lots and other low-lying areas.
Residents are encouraged to monitor weather updates and be prepared for additional Flash Flood Warnings if storms continue to intensify.
Key Points
- A Flash Flood Warning is in effect until 3:45 p.m. for parts of Ocean and Monmouth counties, including Toms River, Brick, Lakewood and Jackson.
- Rainfall rates of 1.5 to 3 inches per hour could produce life-threatening flash flooding, with additional rainfall expected.
- Motorists are urged to avoid flooded roads and heed the National Weather Service’s warning: “Turn around, don’t drown.”
