Mount Holly, New Jersey – Heavy rainfall expected Tuesday could produce rapid rises on rivers and streams across New Jersey, with parts of the state forecast to receive more than 2 inches of rain. While widespread river flooding is not currently forecast, water levels are expected to respond quickly if the heaviest rainfall develops.
According to the National Weather Service Middle Atlantic River Forecast Center, the greatest rainfall totals are expected across central and northern New Jersey through Tuesday, where forecast guidance indicates a broad area of 2 inches or more of precipitation. The agency says rivers are expected to rise Tuesday as runoff increases but emphasized that no river flooding is currently forecast. Officials will continue monitoring rainfall totals and river responses as the event unfolds.
The heaviest rain could affect communities from Trenton and New Brunswick to Newark, Paterson and areas closer to the New York metropolitan region. Smaller creeks and streams are likely to react more quickly than larger rivers, and localized poor-drainage flooding may develop during periods of intense rainfall.
One river being closely monitored is the Saddle River at Lodi, where forecast guidance shows water levels rising into Tuesday night. Current projections keep the river below the 5.5-foot flood stage, though additional rainfall or localized heavier downpours could alter that outlook.
Motorists should avoid driving through water-covered roads, as even shallow flooding can conceal hazards. Residents living near rivers and flood-prone streams should monitor updated forecasts and be prepared for changing conditions if heavier rainfall develops than currently expected.
The National Weather Service says forecast confidence will improve as Tuesday approaches, and additional flood advisories or watches could be issued if rainfall projections increase.
