New Jersey
New Jersey braces for more rain, wind on Friday night while still dealing with flooding
2-minute read
New Jersey is getting ready for more rain as it continues to deal with flooding as rivers rise and crest.
The National Weather Service issued another flood watch for Friday starting around 10 p.m. through 10 a.m. Saturday morning.
Meteorologist John Cristantello said to expect heavy rainfall, with expectations ranging from 1 to 2 inches. Some areas may experience even greater rainfall, exceeding 2 inches.
Lingering flooding along the Passaic River
On Friday morning areas were still dealing with flooding, specifically along Route 20 in both directions from County Road 652 in Paterson, resulting in the closure of all lanes.
Route 46 east in Fairfield, just west of Willowbrook Mall is down to one open lane as flood water caused the closure of the other lane.
Greg Carr, a resident of Zeliff Avenue in Little Falls said the water has managed to get into the basement but the sump pumps are doing a good job at keeping it manageable. He said his wife and daughters went to stay with family but he stayed back home to keep an eye on things as the Passaic River crested.
He said he removed the water heater and stored it on the front porch so it would stay dry.
Carr lives in the same oft-flooded Little Falls neighborhood that Gov. Phil Murphy visited Thursday morning, near the Passaic River, accompanied by Mayor James Damiano and other local officials. The group stood in about an inch of water on Louis Street, but the governor said the same area could see 2 to 3 feet following the crest around 7 or 8 p.m. Thursday.
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Flooding at the Elmwood Park Marina
The Passaic River crested overnight, Jan. 12, 2024, inundating the marina in Elmwood Park, NJ.
The Passaic River rose and hit its peak Thursday night, posing a potential threat of more flooding at low-lying areas along shorelines and tidal waterways.
The river was expected to crest at 9.7 feet on Thursday night, a U.S. Geological Survey map shows.
The forecast calls for rain and wind
In addition to the heavy rainfall, coastal areas are expected to face stronger winds, gusting between 45-55 mph. These conditions pose potential hazards and require residents to exercise caution.
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Residents are urged to stay informed about the evolving weather situation and take necessary precautions. If you need to travel, be aware of road closures and diversions. Stay tuned to local news updates and follow guidance from authorities to ensure your safety during this weather event.