The National Weather Service in Mount Holly, NJ, has issued a series of weather warnings for the Philadelphia area, alerting residents to severe storms and potential flooding until tomorrow. The forecast predicts thunderstorms and heavy rain, with an 80 to 90% chance of precipitation and rainfall up to three quarters of an inch possible through tonight.
For those living in coastal areas, an advisory remains in effect until 5 AM EDT tomorrow due to coastal flooding concerns. While flooding is not anticipated to be continuous, residents should prepare to encounter minor impacts over several high tide cycles. The Delaware River at Philadelphia is forecasted to reach high total tides approximating 8.8 feet MLLW, which is 2.1 feet MHHW, potentially causing minor flooding.
Compounding the weather troubles, the National Weather Service also maintains a Flood Watch through late tonight for multiple areas including New Castle, Delaware, and areas in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. High rainfall rates are to easily exceed the absorption capacity of soil and storm drains, raising the specter of crested rivers and overwhelmed urban drainage systems. The Flood Watch warns of possible flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations, specifically for residents of cities like Wilmington, Trenton, Reading, and Philadelphia.
The public is advised to not drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth. The flood advisory statement urges individuals to allow extra time as some roads may be closed and to take necessary actions to protect flood-prone property.
