Westfield Storm: Closures, River Flooding, Outages

Updated as of 5:42 a.m. on Wednesday

WESTFIELD, NJ — A winter storm brought high winds and heavy rain to the Westfield area.

The National Weather Service's Flood Watch remains in effect for Westfield through 8 a.m. on Wednesday and a Wind Advisory remains in effect through 8 p.m. on Wednesday.

"The Department of Public Works is monitoring known problem areas and continuing to clear stormwater drains throughout the day. Residents are advised that this amount of rainfall in a brief period of time may result in temporarily overcharged storm drains. This is not unusual for significant rainfall, and typically the excess water dissipates after a short time," said the Town in an alert on Tuesday night.

River Flooding

The Rahway River at Springfield is currently at the minor flood stage at 8.21 feet.

The Passaic River at Chatham is also hovering around the minor flooding stage of 6 feet.

Road Closures

As of 5:16 a.m., there is flooding on Route 124 in both directions near Victory Road in Springfield. All lanes are closed as a result.

The Westfield Police and Fire Departments are also monitoring road conditions, and will advise the community if any detours become necessary.

If storm-related changes are made to curbside recycling collection or Conservation Center hours on Wednesday, the Town will communicate that information as soon as it becomes available.

Outages

There are fewer than 5 PSE&G customers in Westfield without power. Power is expected to be restored by 8:15 p.m. on Wednesday.

PSE&G advises preparations such as charging mobile devices, keeping a flashlight and batteries handy, and testing any available hot spots. These tools are available to report an outage and receive status updates on power restoration:

• Download the PSE&G mobile app to report outages and receive information on restoration times, crew locations and more.
• Register for MyAlerts to receive text notifications at pseg.com/outagecenter.
• Report an outage and receive status updates by texting OUT to 4PSEG (47734). You can also report your outage through the app or on the website at pseg.com/myaccount.
• Follow PSE&G on Facebook, Instagram (@PSEG) and Twitter (@PSEGdelivers) for updates before, during and after the storm.
• Visit PSE&G’s Outage Map for the latest in outage info, restoration times and crew locations across New Jersey at pseg.com/outagecenter.
• To report an outage by phone, call PSE&G at 1-800-436-PSEG (7734).

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