Flood Watch Issued For Somerset County As Widespread Showers, Thunderstorms Approach

SOMERSET COUNTY, NJ — A Flood Watch has been issued for Somerset County as widespread showers and thunderstorms approach the area.

The National Weather Service(NWS) issued the Flood Watch from Thursday afternoon through late Thursday night.

"Widespread showers and thunderstorms are expected Thursday afternoon through Thursday night. Storms will be capable of producing locally heavy rainfall, and scattered instances of flash flooding will be possible. Some isolated severe thunderstorms possible Thursday as well," according to US National Weather Service Philadelphia/Mount Holly.

Showers and thunderstorms will be capable of heavy rain, resulting in rainfall amounts of 2 to 4 inches with 6 inches or more in localized areas. Rainfall rates may exceed 2 inches per hour.

"Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible," according to NWS.

Here is a look at the forecast ahead:

Wednesday Afternoon: A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 99. Heat index values as high as 104. Southwest wind around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.

Wednesday Night: A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before 11 p.m., then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. Calm wind. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.

Thursday: A chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 2 p.m. Some of the storms could produce heavy rainfall. Partly sunny, with a high near 86. Northeast wind around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Thursday Night: Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Some of the storms could produce heavy rainfall. Low around 64. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80 percent. New rainfall amounts between a half and three-quarters of an inch possible.

Friday: Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. High near 71. Northeast wind around 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80 percent. New rainfall amounts between a half and three-quarters of an inch possible.

Friday Night: A slight chance of showers before 2 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 58. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.