Flood Watch for Elizabeth: National Weather Service

The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for portions of northeast New Jersey, including Elizabeth and other Union County towns, beginning Tuesday morning through Wednesday morning. Union County Life reports on the alert and safety guidance.

A slow-moving low-pressure system will bring multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms to the area. The National Weather Service forecasts rainfall between 2 and 5 inches, with a high likelihood of one inch or more per hour for several hours during the watch period.

Flooding is the deadliest thunderstorm-related hazard annually, according to the National Weather Service. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that over half of all flood-related drownings occur when vehicles are driven into hazardous flood water. The second-highest cause of flood deaths is walking into or near flood waters.

The physics of moving water are dangerous. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to sweep most cars off the road. Two feet of rushing water can carry away SUVs and trucks. The National Weather Service states it is never safe to drive or walk into flood waters.

Residents should monitor weather updates through Tuesday and Wednesday. Prepare an emergency kit with water, first aid supplies, flashlights, and batteries. Know multiple evacuation routes from your area. If you encounter flooded roadways, turn around and do not attempt to cross.

Stay informed about Elizabeth news and alerts on Union County Life.

FAQ

Q: When is the flood watch for Elizabeth?
A: The National Weather Service issued a flood watch beginning Tuesday, July 29, in the morning through Wednesday, July 30, in the morning. The watch covers Elizabeth and other portions of northeast New Jersey and Union County.

Q: How much rain is expected?
A: The National Weather Service forecasts between 2 and 5 inches of rainfall during the watch period. Rainfall rates could exceed one inch per hour for several hours, creating the potential for flash flooding.

Q: What should I do if I encounter flooded roads?
A: Never drive or walk into flood waters. Turn around and find an alternate route. It takes just 12 inches of moving water to carry away most cars and 2 feet of moving water to carry away SUVs and trucks. The National Weather Service emphasizes it is never safe to enter flood waters.

Q: How can I prepare for flooding?
A: Prepare an emergency kit with water, first aid supplies, flashlights, and batteries. Know multiple evacuation routes from your home or workplace. Monitor weather updates throughout Tuesday and Wednesday. Stay off flooded roads.

Q: Why is flooding dangerous?
A: Flooding causes more deaths than any other thunderstorm-related hazard. Over half of all flood-related drownings occur when vehicles are driven into flood water. The force of moving water can sweep vehicles and people away quickly.

Q: Where can I find official weather updates for Elizabeth?
A: Check the National Weather Service website at weather.gov for ongoing updates. Union County Life provides weather alerts and emergency information for Elizabeth and other towns.