Severe weather this week could impact thousands of New Jersey residents along the beaches. It's one of those days where residents need to be weather aware as it can change in only a matter of minutes.

Storms forced some beaches to be cleared Sunday, and lightning is always a concern. It was hot along the beaches Sunday as storms blew up inland – putting out a lot of lightning, but no rain. Lifeguards in these situations must make the tough decision to clear beaches when lightning is detected nearby despite blue skies overhead.

“Usually, our safety range is 15 miles. If we see a storm to the west, we're going to start clearing our beaches,” said Sea Girt beach patrol Jim Freda. I’m looking at a lightning strike map that we’re going to monitor.”

If a storm pops up when you’re on the beach, you are in danger. Lightning can strike miles away from the parent storm. Many beaches are now equipped with lightning detection systems and sirens. If the lifeguards tell you to move, do it.

Residents should keep an eye out to the west today for any sort of development of storm clouds. They can start spitting out lightning bolts before any rain.

In addition to the severe weather, strong southerly winds will whip the waves in the surf zone creating a moderate risk of rip currents. Guards will be on extra high alert.

The further south in New Jersey, the bigger risk there is for dangerous weather.