Caution Urged As Thunderstorms Roll Into Secaucus/Hudson County

SECAUCUS, NJ — Be prepared, Secaucus: Forecasters predict severe thunderstorms will hit New Jersey on Monday afternoon into the evening, with wind gusts up to 60 mph, large hail and possible flash flooding.

In Hudson County, the chance of thunderstorms will begin at approximately 1 p.m. and end at 9 p.m., according to the Hudson County Office of Emergency Management.

While there are some rumors circulating that Secaucus schools have been dismissed early due to the storm, that is not accurate, said acting Secaucus superintendent of schools Daniela Riser. Secaucus schools are now doing a "rapid dismissal" Monday and all after-school activities, sports and Beyond the Bell have been canceled.

However, High Tech over by Laurel Hill, run by the Hudson County Schools of Technology, has an early dismissal Monday due to the storm.

They are predicting damaging wind gusts in excess of 58 miles per hour, which could bring down trees and power lines. There is also hail possible and even isolated tornadoes. There is a marginal flash flooding risk, with localized urban-area flooding in areas known for poor drainage, said Hudson County OEM.

Secure outdoor furniture now. Avoid areas prone to flooding. Don't ever drive or walk through large puddles; there could be downed live electric wires. Related: Woodbridge Woman Was Electrocuted Walking Home During Ida (Sept. 2021)

This storm is looking particularly bad for northwest New Jersey and is expected to peter out by the time it hits the Jersey Shore. Heavy rain is expected to begin falling in northwestern New Jersey between 3 and 5 p.m.

"Some of the storms could be severe," police said in Morris County.

The National Weather Service has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook for Morris County. Current forecast data says they will have rain, followed by thunderstorms and strong storms with gusts of 45-70 mph are possible. Morris County will experience heavy rainfall, moderate to frequent lightning and a risk for hail.

The anticipated window of storm activity is 3-9 p.m. at this time. This could change based on the storm track.

Please keep in mind that strong winds can blow unsecured items.

Tuesday is expected to be sunny with a high near 74.

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