Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued Across New Jersey Until This Evening

A severe thunderstorm watch was issued Saturday afternoon for 20 of New Jersey’s 21 counties as an approaching cold front collides with humid air, raising risks of damaging winds, heavy rain and hail until 8 p.m.

Nut Graf: The National Weather Service and Storm Prediction Center issued the watch at 1 p.m. after models indicated warm, humid air in the 80s and dew points in the 70s would intersect with a cold front crossing the state. Residents are urged to remain alert for warnings and seek shelter if storms intensify.

Key Details:

• Watch area: All New Jersey counties except Cape May
• Effective: 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday
• Primary hazards:
  • Heavy rainfall: 1-3 inches possible, localized flooding
  • Gusty winds: Up to 60 mph, potential tree and power‐line damage
  • Hail: Up to nickel size, with isolated larger hailstones
  • Lightning and tornadoes: Cloud‐to‐ground strikes widespread; brief tornadoes cannot be ruled out

Storm Evolution and Timing Spotty showers and thunderstorms entered northwestern New Jersey by early afternoon and will spread southeast through the afternoon rush. Peak severe risk is forecast between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m., coinciding with rush‐hour commutes.

Preparation and Safety Advice Stay tuned to weather alerts via radio or smartphone. When skies darken or thunder is audible, take cover indoors. Motorists should watch for flooded roadways, and outdoor event organizers should be ready to halt activities.

Outlook The watch lifts by 8 p.m., but lingering rain may continue overnight into Sunday morning. Clearing skies and lower humidity will usher in cooler, sunnier conditions on Sunday afternoon, with highs dropping into the 70s.