Multiple water rescues were carried out across New Jersey on Monday morning as a slow-moving storm dumped several inches of rain across the region in just a few hours. Fire officials in Passaic County reported numerous water rescues throughout Hawthorne starting around 5:20 a.m.
Highways Shut Down During Morning Commute
Flash flooding forced the closure of lanes on several major roads, including Route 1 in South Brunswick, Routes 1 and 9 in Jersey City, Route 30 in Camden, Route 38 in Cherry Hill, and Route 130 in Pennsauken — all during the height of the morning commute.
Rainfall Totals Climbing Fast
More than 4 inches of rain fell in parts of Burlington and Mercer counties, with over 3 inches recorded in Atlantic, Cumberland, Monmouth, and Passaic counties. Some of the hardest-hit areas include Cinnaminson with 4.45 inches and Ewing with 4.01 inches — close to what New Jersey typically receives during the entire month of August.
Forecasters warned that an additional 2 to 3 inches of rain could fall before conditions begin improving in the afternoon.
Flash Flood Warnings Cover Most of the State
Active flash flood warnings have been issued for Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean, and Somerset counties, effective through 2:45 p.m. Some warnings triggered emergency cell phone alerts. Coastal communities are facing additional flooding as heavy rainfall combines with rising high tides.
Power Outages Add to the Chaos
Scattered thunderstorms knocked out power to more than 8,800 homes and businesses across the state. Most New Jersey counties remain under a flood watch through Monday night, with the watch lifting between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. depending on location.
Residents in affected areas are urged to avoid flooded roads and stay indoors until conditions improve.