Rain and Rough Seas: Coastal Flood Advisory and Rip Current Risks for Delaware and New Jersey

Photo byNational Weather Service

Coastal flood advisory and high rip current risk in effect as unsettled weather persists through midweek.

Rain, Flooding, and Dangerous Rip Currents Expected Along the Delaware and Jersey Coasts

[MOUNT HOLLY, NJ] — Issued by the National Weather Service at 4:38 AM EDT on September 17, 2024.

Coastal Flood Advisory and Rip Current Alerts

The National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Advisory for parts of New Jersey and Delaware, including Cape May, Atlantic, and Cumberland counties in New Jersey, as well as Kent and Sussex counties in Delaware. The advisory is in effect from 7 PM this evening to 1 AM EDT Wednesday. Minor tidal flooding is expected during tonight’s high tide, potentially impacting vulnerable roadways in coastal areas.

In addition to flooding, a High Risk for Rip Currents has been issued for the Delaware Beaches and the Jersey Shore through Wednesday evening due to strong onshore winds and high waves. Rip currents pose life-threatening conditions, and beachgoers are advised to exercise extreme caution and avoid entering the water where warnings are posted.

Increasing Chances of Rain and Storms

Onshore flow continues across the region, bringing higher humidity and cloud cover. An area of low pressure tracking northward through the Carolinas, combined with a secondary coastal low organizing near Cape Hatteras, is expected to bring increasing chances of showers through midweek. While much of the rain is forecast to remain offshore, areas along the coast could see localized heavy downpours, particularly if tropical moisture shifts inland.

Overall, rainfall amounts are expected to range from a half inch to one and a quarter inches along the coast, with lower amounts further inland. Temperatures will remain cool, with highs in the upper 70s and lows in the mid-60s.

Short-Term and Long-Term Outlook

Through Wednesday and Thursday, tropical moisture will continue to influence the region, with scattered showers and the possibility of heavier downpours, particularly near the coast and over the Delmarva Peninsula. The flood risk remains low due to recent dry conditions, though some localized areas may see minor flooding if heavy downpours occur.

As we move into the weekend, the forecast remains uncertain. A blocking pattern will likely keep conditions unsettled and cool, with a persistent threat of showers, especially for coastal areas. Temperatures will continue to hover in the 70s during the day and 50s at night.

Aviation and Marine Conditions

Aviation conditions will see periods of MVFR to IFR due to low clouds and potential rain, particularly near coastal airports such as KACY. Winds will be from the east to northeast, generally around 10 knots, with possible gusts near 20 knots.

On the marine front, Small Craft Advisories remain in effect for coastal waters due to east to northeast winds of 15 knots and gusts up to 25 knots. Seas are expected to range from 5 to 8 feet, with the potential for conditions to remain hazardous through midweek.

Coastal Flooding and Rip Currents

Coastal Flood Advisories have been posted for tonight’s high tide, with minor tidal flooding expected. Residents in affected areas should prepare for possible road closures and heed any warnings issued by local authorities.

A Rip Current Statement is also in effect through Wednesday evening for both Delaware and New Jersey beaches, with dangerous rip currents expected due to strong onshore winds and high waves. Beachgoers are urged to follow safety guidelines and stay informed of local conditions.

Hazardous Weather Changes Fast - Stay Updated

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