Storms, Wind, Flooding For North Jersey On Memorial Day Weekend

NEW JERSEY - Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer in New Jersey, with many residents set to commence the new season with a three-day weekend filled with memorial services and outdoor events.

But Mother Nature may not cooperate with for a beach day or outdoor gathering this weekend, as the forecast calls for rain, winds and flooding in some areas.

The National Weather Service issued a coastal flooding advisory on Thursday afternoon, predicting that more than an inch of rain could fall on northern New Jersey from Friday night into Saturday morning, and that low-lying and coastal roads and basements will experience "minor flooding."

The advisory — for all of Hudson County and for eastern Essex and Union counties — extends from 9 p.m. Friday to 1 a.m. Saturday.

"Minor flooding is expected in the more vulnerable locations near the waterfront and shoreline," says the advisory. "Some roads and low-lying properties including parking lots, parks, lawns, and homes and businesses with basements near the waterfront will experience minor flooding."

Showers are anticipated to begin after 2 p.m. on Friday with high winds and continue into the evening. Rain is likely before 8 a.m. on Saturday, then again before 2 p.m.

Temperatures are expected to drop in New Jersey on Saturday, bringing scattered afternoon showers and up to 40 mph gusts of wind.

The National Weather Service says Sunday and Monday will be the safest bets for outdoor activities like barbecues, picnics and beach visits. But even Sunday won't be completely safe (see forecast below).

Those spending Memorial Day outside should pack sunblock, according to AccuWeather. Although temperatures are only supposed to approach 70 degrees, the UV Index will be “very high,” according to the weather service.

RELATED: Everything You Need For An Amazing Memorial Day Weekend

The Forecast

Here is the forecast:

• Friday: A 50 percent chance of rain, mainly after 3 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 70. East wind 10 to 13 m.p.h.
• Friday Night: Rain, mainly after 7 p.m. Low around 52. East wind 13 to 15 m.p.h. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New precipitation amounts between three quarters and one inch possible.
• Saturday: Rain likely before 9 a.m., then showers likely, mainly between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Cloudy, with a high near 60. Northeast wind 15 to 17 m.p.h. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent. New precipitation amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible.
• Saturday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 51. Northeast wind around 14 m.p.h.
• Sunday: Partly sunny, with a high near 64.

Additional minor flooding is possible with the Saturday night high tide in coastal areas, officials said.

This post contains reporting by Nicole Rosenthal and Caren Lissner.

Before you go:

• Send a news tip or correction to: russ.crespolini@patch.com
• Subscribe to your local Patch newsletter.
• Learn more about posting announcements or events to your local Patch site.