NJ Under Severe Thunderstorm Threat

Thirteen counties in northern and central New Jersey, along with the New York City metro region, are under a severe thunderstorm watch. This alert, active until 9 p.m. Friday, warns of the potential for strong storms with damaging wind gusts. Some gusts could reach as high as 70 mph, posing a risk of toppling trees and power lines.

Forecasters anticipate that storms will develop late Friday afternoon and may persist into the evening as a cold front moves through the region. While not every area will experience severe weather, those impacted could face heavy downpours, leading to localized flash flooding. Other storm possibilities include large hail and frequent lightning. The current high heat and humidity could intensify the storms.

Following Friday's severe weather potential, Saturday is expected to bring much drier air to the region. The cold front is not anticipated to significantly lower temperatures but will clear out the humid conditions that have affected New Jersey for two consecutive days. Heat advisories remain in place for most of the state.