Maplewood's OEM Says: Heavy Rain Expected From Storm Ian, And For Days After

MAPLEWOOD, NJ — The latest forecast for the Maplewood area shows that more than an inch of rain could fall throughout Saturday, with wind gusts as high as 29 m.p.h. the next day.

And the rain won't stop when the remnants of Hurricane Ian pass. Maplewood's Office of Emergency Management explained why.

Before 11 p.m. on Friday, the OEM sent out an alert.

They wrote:

"The National Weather Service is calling for heavy and steady rain throughout the weekend, beginning the morning of Saturday, October 1. There is potential for moderate to locally significant coastal impacts. Rainfall of 1" to 3" is anticipated, and storm winds may hit peak gusts of up to 45 mph, bringing down trees and wires.

"Although the remnants of Hurricane Ian will not directly impact the Maplewood area, a strong frontal system invigorated by Ian will lift into the northeast over the coming days. This, coupled with strong high Canadian pressure, is anticipated to increase the potential of moderate to heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and minor to locally moderate coastal impacts this weekend into Monday.

"Additional information is available through the National Weather Service's tropical webpage, the official National Hurricane Center forecast.

"Residents with generators are advised to ensure their equipment is in working condition prior to the storm. To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, gas-powered generators should not be used in enclosed spaces. Those who rely on electric-powered medical equipment should notify their energy provider and local public safety authorities in advance of the storm:"

• JCP&L: 1-888-LIGHTSS (544-4877)
• PSE&G: 1-800-436-PSEG (7734) or text "OUT" to 4PSEG or visit pseg.com/myaccount
• Maplewood Fire/EMS non-emergency line: (973) 762-6500

"In the event of downed power lines or trees, residents should contact both their local energy provider and the Maplewood Police Department's non-emergency line. Downed wires should always be considered "live," and residents should remain at least 30 feet away. Please note that downed wires can be hidden in standing water; residents are to avoid unnecessary travel and exercise caution."

• JCP&L: 1-888-LIGHTSS (544-4877)
• PSE&G: 1-800-436-PSEG (7734) or text "OUT" to 4PSEG or visit pseg.com/myaccount
• Maplewood PD non-emergency line: (973) 762-1234

Other Information From Patch

Major activities planned around the county this weekend have already been postponed.

A storm that weakens over land can still bring heavy wind and rain, as with the fatal Tropical Depression Ida only one year ago.

A potential rainfall map from the National Hurricane Center for the next three days stretches to the New York City area.

The local National Weather Service forecast for Essex County says:

Saturday morning: Rain likely, mainly after 5 a.m. Cloudy, with a low around 51. Northeast wind 6 to 8 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent. New precipitation amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Saturday: Rain, mainly before 2 p.m. Steady temperature around 54. Northeast wind 10 to
14 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90 percent. New precipitation amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.

Sunday: A 50 percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 59. Northeast wind 13 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph.

Forecast Links And Tropical Storm Ian Tracking

• Here is the NWS forecast for Essex County.
• Here are the various Storm Ian maps from the National Hurricane Center.

Keep watching Patch for weather information. Got a storm photo? Send it here.

Florida Patch: Ian's Impact: 'Big One' Makes Landfall