Coastal Zones (2,4,5) Update: Rain, strong winds continue

A developing low pressure system along the Delmarva coast will strengthen over the next several hours, shifting north and northwestwards. Initially a few hundred miles offshore, the low pressure will develop to a position very close to the coast of New Jersey by later tonight into Tuesday morning. Bands of heavy precipitation will rotate inland from the Atlantic, with torrential rain likely overnight. Rainfall amounts should exceed 2″ over a large area.

The precipitation is being facilitated by a strong low level jet (transport of wind in the low levels of the atmosphere). This low level jet is bringing anomalous moisture and lift with it, leading to heavy precipitation. In addition to the presence of heavy precipitation, the low level jet is also accompanied by strong winds.

These winds have already been observed along the NJ and NY Coastline and will continue for the next several hours. The winds are likely to be especially prevalent along the Central NJ Coast from Long Beach Island northwards to Sandy Hook. Winds will be maximized as the surface low makes its approach towards the area from 5:00pm this afternoon through 2:00am on Tuesday.

Winds may gust over 60mph at times, especially on the immediate shore. Strong easterly winds will continue to push inland, with the potential for coastal flooding likely maximized with this afternoon and evening’s high tide cycle. The back bays may also experience flooding as strong winds push water inland. This, again, should be maximized in the Central and Northern NJ shore.

An additional threat for strong winds develops tonight from Northeast NJ through Long Island as the surface low pressure moves near the NJ Coast. Northeasterly winds may gust over 60mph at times in Eastern Long Island and in Northeast NJ –creating the potential for downed power lines, tree/wire damage and power outages.