PHILADELPHIA – Drivers across the Philadelphia region, New Jersey and northern Delaware could encounter rapidly flooded roads Thursday as repeated thunderstorms produce rainfall rates of 1 to 3 inches per hour.
According to the National Weather Service, a Flood Watch takes effect Thursday afternoon and continues through late Thursday night across Philadelphia and surrounding southeastern Pennsylvania counties, much of central and southern New Jersey, and New Castle County, Delaware. Multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms could produce widespread totals of 1 to 2 inches, with localized amounts reaching 3 to 5 inches.
Philadelphia, Trenton, Camden, Cherry Hill, New Brunswick, Atlantic City, Freehold, Mount Holly and Wilmington are among the communities covered. Bucks, Montgomery, Chester and Delaware counties in Pennsylvania are also included.
The combination of intense rainfall rates and repeated storms could overwhelm urban drainage systems. Creeks and streams may leave their banks, while low-lying and flood-prone roads could become impassable during Thursday afternoon and evening travel.
Motorists should avoid flooded streets rather than attempt to judge water depth. Residents near creeks and drainage areas should monitor water levels and have a route to higher ground ready if a Flash Flood Warning is issued.
The Flood Watch continues through late Thursday night. Additional warnings may be issued where thunderstorms repeatedly produce the highest rainfall rates.
