Remnants Of Hurricane Nicole May Bring Heavy Rain To Union County: NWS

UNION COUNTY, NJ — Heavy rain and gusty winds are predicted around Union County on Friday, due in part to remnants of Tropical Storm Nicole.

The National Weather Service is predicting showers, mainly after noon, on Friday and a possible thunderstorm in the evening. Wind gusts as high as 37 mph are also predicted.

Cranford's Office of Emergency Management alerted the community that one to 1.5 inches of rain are expected.

The OEM said river flooding is not expected with this storm, but given the likelihood for leaf-clogged storm drains, street flooding is possible. Wind gusts expected to pick up in the evening and peak in the overnight to early Saturday morning hours, the OEM said.

Cranford's DPW has been focusing on clearing storm drains and picking up as many leaves as possible prior to the storm. The Township is also asking residents to assist by clearing storm drains near their homes in advance of the storm.

The OEM said it is also a good time to secure loose items, such as Halloween decorations.

Residents are advised not to drive through flooded roadways or intersections if flash flooding occurs.

The OEM added that localized power outages are possible. Residents are urged to stay away from any downed wires, and treat all downed wires as "live" even if power appears to be out in the area.

Lastly, residents are advised not to run any fuel-powered generators in a garage or other enclosed space or near windows. This is a good time to test battery-powered smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

You can monitor the latest forecasts on the National Weather Service website.