As the Fourth of July celebrations draw near, more than 40 counties across New York and New Jersey are under a Severe Thunderstorm Watch until 10 p.m. Thursday. Residents from Albany to the Jersey Shore should prepare for a dangerous mix of wind gusts over 60 mph, isolated hail, and frequent lightning.
Affected Areas and Timing
The Severe Thunderstorm Watch, issued by the National Weather Service and the Storm Prediction Center, covers a wide area, including New York City, Long Island, the Hudson Valley, and much of North and Central New Jersey. The watch will remain in effect until 10 p.m. Thursday, with storms expected to develop and intensify throughout the evening.
Counties included in the watch range from New York’s five boroughs to Westchester, Orange, and Suffolk, as well as New Jersey’s Essex, Morris, Union, and Passaic counties. Travelers on highways like I-87, I-95, and the Garden State Parkway should be especially cautious, as fast-moving storms could make driving hazardous.
What to Expect
Residents in the affected areas should be prepared for:
Wind Gusts: Strong gusts of wind, exceeding 60 mph, could damage trees, power lines, and outdoor structures. These winds could cause power outages and potentially lead to hazardous driving conditions.
Hail: Isolated hail could cause damage to vehicles, crops, and roofs, especially in stronger storm cells.
Frequent Lightning: Intense lightning poses a risk for anyone caught outdoors or near tall structures, including trees and power poles.
Heavy Rain: Fast-moving storms could result in heavy rainfall, leading to sudden flooding, especially in low-lying areas and urban regions.
Safety Tips for Residents and Travelers
To stay safe during these storms, consider the following precautions:
Secure Outdoor Items: With the high winds expected, secure loose outdoor furniture and decorations to prevent damage or injury.
Avoid Unnecessary Travel: If possible, avoid travel, especially on highways, during the peak of the storm. Flash flooding could make some roads impassable.
Seek Shelter: If you’re outdoors, find shelter indoors as soon as you hear thunder. Thunderstorms can develop quickly, and lightning is a serious danger.
Monitor Weather Updates: Keep your phone charged and monitor weather apps or local broadcasts for any alerts or changes to the forecast.
Potential for Extended Storm Activity
The severe weather could continue into early Friday, as the storm front moves east overnight. Further advisories or warnings may be issued depending on how the storm system develops. Officials are also warning that the storms could disrupt outdoor holiday plans, particularly at beaches, parks, and fireworks events.
With severe thunderstorms expected to impact large areas of New York and New Jersey, it’s crucial to stay prepared. Damaging winds, hail, and frequent lightning are all threats that could create hazardous conditions on the roads and in outdoor spaces. Be sure to follow safety guidelines and stay updated on weather reports, especially as the storm may continue into Friday.
