By Gemini News Service | Updated: Wednesday Night
NEW JERSEY — The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued urgent severe thunderstorm warnings for parts of Southern New Jersey as a powerful cold front collides with record-breaking warm air, sparking intense storm cells across the region.
Immediate Warnings in Effect
Severe thunderstorm warnings were officially posted for Cumberland and Salem counties on Wednesday evening. Forecasters are tracking strong storm cells moving through these areas, with the primary warnings effective until 8:45 p.m.
Residents in these southern counties are advised to seek shelter as the storms approach. The NWS warns that these cells are capable of producing:
- Damaging Wind Gusts: Up to 60 mph, which can down trees and power lines.
- Large Hail: Up to 1 inch in diameter (roughly the size of a quarter).
- Heavy Rainfall: Potential for localized flash flooding in low-lying areas.
Record Warmth Meets Cold Front
The sudden shift in weather comes after a day of unseasonably warm temperatures. Warm air drifting from the southwest pushed afternoon highs into the upper 70s and low 80s across many New Jersey counties—flirting with daily record highs in several cities.
However, the “spring-like” feel is being cut short by a cold front arriving from the west. This front is the primary catalyst for the current line of showers and thunderstorms. While the southern half of the state remains at the highest risk for severe weather, scattered showers and isolated rumbles of thunder are possible anywhere in New Jersey tonight.
Temperature Rollercoaster: Looking Ahead
The arrival of the cold front will trigger a significant temperature drop. Forecasters suggest the front may stall over the region, leading to a much chillier Thursday.
- Thursday: Highs will struggle to reach the 40s in Northern New Jersey and the 50s in the Southern region.
- The Weekend: A brief warmup returns Friday and Saturday with temperatures climbing back into the 70s.
- Easter Sunday Outlook: Wet weather is expected to return Saturday night, potentially lingering into Easter Sunday morning.
Local authorities urge residents to keep their weather alerts active and stay off the roads during the height of the storm.
Share this update with neighbors in Salem and Cumberland counties to keep them informed.
