Grab your umbrellas, you might need them this week.
New Jersey faces a stretch of rough conditions this week as a developing coastal system moves through the region, bringing heavy rain, high-speed wind and possible flooding. Calmer conditions should return by Halloween.
Clouds will intensify throughout the day on Tuesday and light showers could touch down in South Jersey and the Shore. Temperatures will remain in the 50s, with steady northeast winds pushing gusts near 25 mph.
Wednesday stays mostly cloudy and cool. Gusts will strengthen as rain becomes more likely by evening as the storm gathers offshore.
Thursday brings the roughest conditions. A strengthening low-pressure system will drive widespread rain and wind across New Jersey. 1 to 3 inches of rain are expected—those in flood zones are advised to stay alert.
Wind gusts could reach 40 mph, with the strongest winds forming on the coast. The National Weather Service issued a coastal flood warning—some beach erosion is expected.
There is a chance for thunder Thursday afternoon.
The system should move away from the area late Thursday night. By Friday—just in time for Halloween—clear skies and dry air are set to return, though strong west winds will linger, with highs in the mid-50s and temperatures dropping quickly after sunset.
The temperature will cool over the weekend along with conditions. Highs stay in the 50s with crisp nights in the 30s and low 40s as high pressure builds over the region.
Another storm could form early next week, though it is uncertain at this time.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.