Politics & Government

Strong Storms, Heavy Rain Headed Our Way

by Patricia A. Miller

What a difference a few days make.

Earlier this week, residents were coping with dangerously cold temperatures and high winds.

Today temperatures are nearly 50 degrees higher and heavy rain is predicted for this afternoon into tonight, according to the National Weather Service.

The NWS issued a special weather advisory today warning residents of southeastern Ocean County and east central Atlantic counties of a strong storm moving northeast at 70 miles per hour, with possible wind gusts up to 40 miles per hour.

"Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with this storm," according to the NWS website. "Do not stay in the open, nor seek shelter under trees."

Very heavy rainfall is predicted, which will cause water to pond on roads, fill poor drainage areas, and rapid rises on small streams and creeks, according to the weather advisory.

The storm was expected to hit Ship Bottom at 1 p.m., Seaside Heights around 1:10 p.m. and Mantoloking at around 1:20 pm.

Expect a high of 63 degrees today, with southerly winds at 25 miles per hour. The chance of precipitation is 100 percent.

Rain and a possible thunderstorm tonight, before 3 a.m. are predicted, with half an inch to three quarters of an inch. Expect a low around 40 degrees, with southerly winds between 16 to 22 miles per hour.

Sunday will be mostly sunny with a high near 48 degrees. The winds will switch to the west at 15 to 22 miles per hour.


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