Delaware River Could Near Flood Stage From Friday Rain, Officials Say

A bad storm is coming that could lead to flooding in Bucks County and along the Delaware River, experts predict.

The National Weather Service has issued a widespread hazardous outlook for the region. Rainfall of one to two inches is expected to fall on Friday. Localized amounts could reach three inches and drainage flooding is possible, particularly where these higher amounts fall, according to the National Weather Service.

The Hunterdon County Department of Public Safety warns the forecast for the Delaware River at Riegelsville indicates "the river may near flood stage at that location this weekend."

According to Hunterdon County officials, a forecast of 15 feet would mean the entrance to Bulls Island State Park may close, and the Treasure Island Scout Camp would flood.

Flood stage is 22 feet in Riegelsville, according to information from the National Weather Service.

"With the active weather pattern that we find ourselves in it is a good idea to review your preparedness actions relative to flood hazards," the Hunterdon County Department of Public Safety said in a Facebook announcement.

Here are the alerted areas:

Here is the forecast:

Tonight: Rain likely, mainly after 4am. Cloudy, with a low around 37. Southeast wind 3 to 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.

Friday: Rain. High near 47. East wind 10 to 14 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. New precipitation amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.

Friday Night: Rain. Low around 39. Northeast wind 13 to 16 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New precipitation amounts between three quarters and one inch possible.

Saturday: Rain likely before 8am, then a slight chance of showers after 8am. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 52. North wind 11 to 13 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.

Saturday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 37.

Sunday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 58.

Patch file photo