NJ Weather: Thunderstorms Possible As July 4th Weekend Begins

NEW JERSEY – The weather could present a challenge for New Jerseyans during the 4th of July weekend now that the National Weather Service says thunderstorms are possible.

Though the weather could have an impact, some towns are preparing to have fireworks displays with limits on social distancing beginning on Friday. Read more: NJ Fireworks 2020: See If, Where They're Happening July 4 Weekend

The NWS has issued a hazardous weather outlook for several New Jersey counties – particularly along the Jersey Shore – as well as a costal flood advisory since thunderstorms could impact the state after 2 p.m. on Friday.

Here are the areas that could feel the impact of the storms:

Here is what the National Weather Services is saying:

• A coastal flood advisory is in effect in Middlesex, western Monmouth, eastern Monmouth, Ocean and coastal Ocean.
• The advisory is in effect until midnight
• Flooding could begin on the most vulnerable roads in coastal and bayside communities, and along inland tidal waterways. Some partial or full road closures are possible.
• Additional minor coastal flooding is possible with the evening high tide cycles on Saturday and Sunday.

The weather is expected to improve by July 4th and on Sunday, and parts of the state could deal with some of the hottest temperatures this summer.

Here is the forecast:

• Friday afternoon: A chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 3 p.m. Some of the storms could produce gusty winds and heavy rain. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 93. Northeast wind around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30 percent. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
• Friday night: A chance of showers and thunderstorms before midnight, then a slight chance of showers between midnight and 2am. Some of the storms could produce gusty winds and heavy rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 68. East wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40 percent. New precipitation amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
• Independence Day: Partly sunny, with a high near 86. Northeast wind around 5 mph.
• Saturday night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 66. Southeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
• Sunday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 89. Calm wind.
• Sunday night: Mostly clear, with a low around 68.