Philadelphia and surrounding areas are battening down the hatches as a deluge of rain and the threat of coastal flooding bear down on the region. According to the National Weather Service Mount Holly NJ, a Coastal Flood Warning is in effect until tomorrow evening, with one to two feet of inundation expected in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways. The warning spans across multiple counties in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, including Philadelphia, with "widespread roadway flooding" and "minor damage to vulnerable structures" on the table.
The rain onslaught, which is like a spigot that just won’t shut off, is forecasted to bring about new precipitation amounts of up to a quarter of an inch today alone. A whopper of a storm tonight could also cause thunderstorms, heavy rain, and breezy conditions. The National Weather Service warns of "new rainfall amounts between three quarters and one inch possible" before Sunday cracks dawn.
In the midst of this soggy saga, a Flood Watch also remains steadfast for the region from this afternoon through tomorrow evening, as reported by The National Weather Service. An additional 1 to 2 inches of rain is expected to add to the already saturated grounds and high river levels, causing concerns for flooding across multiple river basins and densely packed urban areas where drainage is already pushed to its limits.
Folks in affected locales are urged to take necessary precautions and avoid travel through barricaded or high water areas. The Delaware River in Philadelphia is eyeing tide levels that could rise to moderate flooding conditions, so residents are likely to witness, higher than normal water levels by Sunday. In light of the rising waters, folks around the region are preparing for potential impact, with local authorities advising against the complacency that can often accompany the "it won't happen to me" mindset.
As the city braces for what’s to come, The National Weather Service advisories implore citizens to stay informed through weather reports and be ready to act should flood warnings be issued. With road closures and property damage a real possibility, it’s a watch and wait situation that’ll have Philly and its neighbors on their toes throughout the weekend.
