SEASIDE HEIGHTS, N.J. — A rainy forecast may provide relief from recent disturbances on the Seaside Heights boardwalk, as showers and thunderstorms are expected to dampen crowds Friday and Saturday.
The National Weather Service is predicting a 50 percent chance of showers Friday with patchy fog in the morning and mostly cloudy skies throughout the day. The temperature is expected to reach a high of 78 degrees, with light southwest winds.
Rain is expected to intensify Friday night, with showers and possible thunderstorms and an 80 percent chance of precipitation. Between a half and three-quarters of an inch of rain is possible overnight.
Saturday is forecasted to be the wettest day of the weekend, with continued thunderstorms possible and more than half an inch of additional rain expected. Showers are likely throughout the day, particularly in the morning and afternoon, with a high near 73 degrees.
Saturday night will bring more rain and thunderstorms before 11 p.m., tapering off after midnight. Conditions are expected to clear by Sunday, when mostly sunny skies and a high of 70 are forecast.
Weekend weather may limit boardwalk activity
The weather could impact turnout at the popular boardwalk, which has seen ongoing issues with large, unruly gatherings in recent weeks. Seaside Heights officials have struggled to manage the situation, particularly during weekends with favorable weather.
“Showers and possibly a thunderstorm” are expected Friday night into Saturday, according to the National Weather Service, raising the possibility of decreased foot traffic and evening crowding.
Sunday is expected to bring improved conditions, with partly cloudy skies at night and a low around 52 degrees. Winds are expected to remain calm throughout the weekend, with slight increases during periods of heavier rain.
The precipitation amounts and timing may help local law enforcement and officials regain control over public spaces after recent disruptions drew concerns.
